Liquid flow control and beverage preparation apparatuses, methods and systems

ABSTRACT

Apparatuses, methods and systems for liquid flow control and beverage preparation are disclosed. The apparatuses, methods and systems of the present invention include liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsules, pods, cartridges, pouches, systems, and modules for controlling and directing flow streams of liquid through a beverage preparation process. The apparatuses, methods and systems of the present invention may be used in combination with or included as an integral assembly of any apparatus, method or system for liquid dispension.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to liquid flow control and beveragepreparation apparatuses, methods and systems, and more particularly toapparatuses, methods and systems having at least two-types of dispensingconfigurations for providing a beverage from a refrigerator or otherliquid dispenser, wherein liquid streams, conditioned or otherwise, areguided through a process using a beverage preparation module, pod,capsule, pouch, cartridge, housing, architecture, or similar structurefor controlling and directing liquid flow streams through parallel,flow-through or hybrid flow scenarios, which may include one or moreflow scenarios for preparing and dispensing a beverage.

BACKGROUND

Liquid dispensing apparatuses, methods and systems are well known andubiquitous throughout homes, businesses, public and privateestablishments. Liquid dispensers, to name just a few, may includerefrigerator water and/or ice dispensers, faucets, countertop/tabletopwater dispensers, water dispensing cabinets, or water bubblers. Inshort, liquid dispensing apparatuses, methods and systems provide liquidfrom a source to a receiving point by transporting the liquid from thesource through a liquid flow path to an outlet at or near the receivingpoint. Some liquid dispensing apparatuses, methods and systems are evendesigned to allow flow-through of liquid from the source through aflavoring, such as a concentrated syrup or powder, and to be dispensedas a beverage to the receiving point. Even though some liquid dispensingapparatuses, methods and systems are designed to pass liquid through aliquid flow path from a liquid source to a receiving point, and evendispense a beverage created from dispensing liquid from the liquid flowpath, it is not known in the art to provide a liquid dispenser whereinthe liquid flow path for communicating liquid from the liquid source tothe receiving point is configurable between flow-through and parallelliquid flow modes to facilitate different beverage preparationprocesses.

Therefore, a need has been identified in the art to provide a liquidflow control system for liquid dispensing apparatuses, methods andsystems that is configurable to either a flow-through mode or parallelliquid flow mode to enable varying beverage preparation processes.

Flow control systems for most liquid dispensing apparatuses, methods andsystems are designed to support one liquid flow configuration or mode,such as the flow of liquid through a liquid flow path from the liquidsource to a receiving point. For example, some appliances, such as arefrigerator, have a liquid flow path in communication with a liquidsource for dispensing liquid at the refrigerator, and even dispense abeverage created from dispensing liquid from the liquid flow path.However, the liquid flow path in appliances and even refrigerators isnot configured or configurable to flow-through and/or parallel liquidflow configurations for enabling a broad variety of beverage preparationprocesses.

Therefore, a need has been identified in the art to provide a flowcontrol system for liquid dispensing appliances, such as a refrigerator,that is configured or reconfigurable to varying liquid dispensing modes,such as a flow-through and/or a parallel liquid flow mode for enablingthe appliance or refrigerator to dispense a broad variety of beverages.

Currently, flow control systems for enabling liquid dispensingapparatuses, methods and/or systems with beverage preparation abilitiesare limited to fixed or set liquid flow modes or scenarios depending onthe hardware, architecture and componentry installed duringmanufacturing.

Therefore, a need has been identified in the art for a flow controlsystem that enables liquid dispensing apparatuses, methods and systemswith beverage preparation abilities by providing varying liquid flowscenarios housed within an architecture that is integral to, removablyinsertable or removably attachable to the liquid dispensing apparatus,method and/or system.

Some liquid dispensing apparatuses, methods and systems may include theability to prepare a beverage; however, because these same systems arenot capable of providing various flow scenarios, they are also limitedin the number of beverage preparation processes they can support.

Therefore, a need has been identified in the art to provide anarchitecture that is integral to, removably insertable or removablyattachable to the liquid dispensing apparatus, method or system thatincludes a liquid flow control and beverage preparation system that isconfigurable between different flow control modes for supporting one ormore beverage preparation processes.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Apparatuses, methods and systems for controlling and directing liquidflow streams for enabling liquid dispensing apparatuses, method andsystems with a beverage preparation process for providing a beverage aredisclosed. The apparatuses, methods and systems of the present inventionmay be integral to the liquid dispensing apparatus, method or system,adapted for removable receipt at the liquid dispensing apparatus, methodor system or removably attachable at the liquid dispensing apparatus,method or system.

According to one aspect of the present invention, an apparatus forguiding liquid through an enhanced beverage preparation process using aflow control system is disclosed. The apparatus includes a liquid flowpath having an inlet adapted for fluid communication with a source ofliquid and an outlet adapted for fluid communication with a receivingpoint, such that the flow control system is positionable between theinlet and outlet of the liquid flow path and configurable between aflow-through mode adapted to produce the enhanced beverage by passingliquid through the liquid flow path and a parallel flow mode adapted toproduce the enhanced beverage by passing liquid through the liquid flowpath and an enhancement flow path and combining at a mixing point.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a refrigeratorhaving a flow control system for guiding liquid through an enhancedbeverage preparation process is disclosed. The refrigerator includes aliquid flow path having an inlet adapted for fluid communication with asource of liquid and an outlet adapted for fluid communication with areceiving point such that the flow control system is configurablebetween the inlet and outlet of the liquid flow path at the refrigeratorand configurable between a flow-through mode adapted to produce theenhanced beverage by passing liquid through the liquid flow path and aparallel flow mode adapted to produce the enhanced beverage by passingliquid through the liquid flow path and an enhancement flow path andcombining at a mixing point.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a system forguiding liquid through an enhanced beverage preparation process isdisclosed. The method includes means for supplying a flow of liquid andmeans in the flow of liquid and configurable to either a flow-throughmode to prepare the enhanced beverage or a parallel flow mode to preparethe enhanced beverage.

According to still another aspect of the present invention a method forguiding liquid through an enhanced beverage preparation process at arefrigerator is disclosed. The method includes the steps of providing aliquid flow path having an inlet adapted for fluid communication with asource of liquid and an outlet adapted for fluid communication with areceiving point and configuring the liquid flow path between aflow-through mode adapted to produce the enhanced beverage by passingliquid through the liquid flow path and a parallel flow mode adapted toproduce the enhanced beverage by passing liquid through the liquid flowpath and an enhancement flow path and combining at a mixing point.

According to still another aspect of the present invention an apparatusfor enhancing a liquid to provide a beverage is disclosed. The apparatusincludes a liquid flow path having an inlet adapted for fluidcommunication with a source of liquid and an outlet adapted for fluidcommunication with a beverage receiving point, a chamber adapted forholding or receipt of an enhancement component, an enhancement flow pathhaving an inlet in fluid communication with the chamber and an outlet influid communication with a mixing point at or before the receiving pointproviding the confluence of the outlet of the enhancement flow path, andso that a beverage can be provided at the receiving point by passing theliquid through the liquid flow path and combining the liquid at themixing point with the enhancement component from the enhancement flowpath.

According to still another aspect of the present invention a method forenhancing a liquid with an enhancement component to provide a beverageis disclosed. The method includes the steps of directing a liquid from aliquid source through a liquid flow path, directing an enhancementcomponent from an enhancement component source through an enhancementflow path that is separate from the liquid flow path, moving theenhancement component with the liquid from the liquid flow path to amixing point to create a mixture with the enhancement component and theliquid, and dispensing the mixture as a beverage at a beverage receivingpoint.

According to still another aspect of the present invention a capsule forenhancing a liquid to provide a beverage is disclosed. The capsuleincludes a liquid flow path having an inlet adapted for fluidcommunication with a source of liquid and an outlet adapted for fluidcommunication with a beverage receiving point, a chamber adapted forreceipt of an enhancement component, an enhancement flow path having aninlet in fluid communication with the chamber, and an outlet in fluidcommunication with the liquid flow path so that a beverage can beprovided at the receiving point by passing the liquid through the liquidflow path and combining the liquid with the enhancement component fromthe enhancement flow path.

According to still another aspect of the present invention a method forenhancing a liquid with a capsule having an enhancement component toprovide a beverage is disclosed. The method includes the steps ofdirecting a liquid from a liquid source through a liquid flow path ofthe capsule to a beverage receiving point, moving an enhancementcomponent from an enhancement component source through an enhancementflow path, and combining or affecting the liquid from the liquid flowpath with the enhancement component at a mixing point so that a beveragecan be provided at the beverage receiving point.

According to still another aspect of the present invention a pouch forenhancing liquid with an enhancement component for providing an enhancedbeverage is disclosed. The pouch includes a liquid flow path having aninlet adapted for fluid communication with a source of liquid and anoutlet adapted for fluid communication with a beverage receiving point,a chamber adapted for receipt of an enhancement component, anenhancement flow path having an inlet in fluid communication with thechamber and an outlet in fluid communication with the liquid flow pathso that a beverage can be provided at the receiving point by passing theliquid through the liquid flow path and combining with the enhancementcomponent.

According to still another aspect of the present invention a method forenhancing a liquid with a pouch having an enhancement component toprovide a beverage is disclosed. The method includes the steps ofdirecting a liquid from a liquid source through a liquid flow path ofthe pouch, moving an enhancement component from an enhancement componentsource through an enhancement flow path by passing the liquid throughthe liquid flow path, combining or affecting the liquid in the liquidflow path with the enhancement component at a mixing point to create abeverage, and dispensing the beverage from the pouch to a beveragereceiving point.

According to still another aspect of the present invention an apparatusfor liquid dispension is disclosed. The apparatus includes a firstliquid flow path having an inlet adapted for fluid communication with asource of liquid and an outlet adapted for fluid communication with areceiving point, and a second liquid flow path having an inlet adaptedfor fluid communication with the source of liquid and an outlet adaptedfor fluid communication with the receiving point.

According to still another aspect of the present invention an apparatusfor guiding liquid through an enhanced beverage preparation process isdisclosed. The apparatus includes a plurality of liquid flow paths eachhaving an inlet adapted for fluid communication with a source of liquidand an outlet adapted for fluid communication with a receiving point,and a chamber positioned intermediately the inlet and the outlet of eachliquid flow path.

According to still another aspect of the present invention a method forenhancing a liquid with an enhancement component to provide a beverageis disclosed. The method includes the steps of directing a liquid from aliquid source through a liquid flow path, distributing the liquid in theliquid flow path to a first liquid flow path and a second liquid flowpath, and dispensing the liquid from an outlet of the first and secondflow path to a beverage receiving point.

According to still another aspect of the present invention a system forenhancing a liquid with a structure having an enhancement component isdisclosed. The system includes a liquid distributor with a plurality ofliquid flow paths having an inlet adapted for fluid communication with asource of liquid, and an outlet adapted for fluid communication with abeverage receiving point. The capsule is adapted for removable receiptat the outlet of each liquid flow path so that a beverage can beprovided at the beverage receiving point by passing the liquid throughthe liquid flow path and combining the liquid with the enhancementcomponent.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

While the specifications concludes with claims particularly pointing outand distinctly claiming the invention, it is believed that the presentinvention will be better understood from the following description takenin conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1A is front elevation view of a liquid dispensing appliance;

FIG. 1B is a front perspective view of one type of a liquid dispenser;

FIG. 1C is a front perspective view of another type of a liquiddispenser;

FIG. 1D is a front perspective view of another type of a liquiddispenser;

FIG. 1E is a front perspective view of a pair of liquid dispensers;

FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of the liquid dispenser of therefrigerator shown in FIG. 1A;

FIG. 3A is a front elevation view of the liquid dispenser shown in FIG.2 with one exemplary embodiment of the liquid flow control and beveragepreparation capsule of the present invention;

FIG. 3B is a perspective view of an attachment interface at the liquiddispenser for the liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsuleaccording to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3C is a front elevation view of a corresponding attachmentinterface on a liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsuleaccording to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of the liquid dispenser shown in FIG. 2with another embodiment of an attachment interface for a liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation capsule according to an exemplaryembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4B is a side elevation view of the liquid flow control and beveragepreparation capsule attached at the liquid dispenser according to anexemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5A is a diagram illustrating one liquid flow-through configuration;

FIG. 5B is a diagram illustrating another liquid flow-throughconfiguration;

FIG. 5C is a diagram illustrating one parallel liquid flowconfiguration;

FIG. 5D is a diagram illustrating another parallel liquid flowconfiguration;

FIG. 6A is a sectional view of one embodiment of a liquid flow controland beverage preparation pod configurable to a flow-through or parallelflow configuration according to an exemplary aspect of the presentinvention;

FIG. 6B is a sectional view of the liquid flow control and beveragepreparation pod shown in FIG. 6A configured to a parallel flow modeaccording to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6C is a sectional view of the liquid flow control and beveragepreparation pod shown in FIG. 6A configured to a flow-through modeaccording to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7A is a sectional view of another embodiment of a liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation pod configurable to a flow-through orparallel flow configuration according to an exemplary aspect of thepresent invention;

FIG. 7B is a sectional view of the liquid flow control and beveragepreparation pod shown in FIG. 7A configured to a parallel flow modeaccording to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7C is a sectional view of the liquid flow control and beveragepreparation pod shown in FIG. 7A configured to a flow-through modeaccording to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8A is a sectional view of one embodiment of a liquid flow controland beverage preparation capsule configurable to a flow-through orparallel flow configuration according to an exemplary aspect of thepresent invention;

FIG. 8B is a sectional view of some exemplary components of the liquidflow control and beverage preparation capsule shown in FIG. 8A;

FIG. 8C is a sectional view of the liquid flow control and beveragepreparation capsule shown in FIG. 8A configured to a flow-through modeaccording to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8D is a sectional view of the liquid flow control and beveragepreparation capsule shown in FIG. 8A configured to a parallel flow modeaccording to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9A is a sectional view of another embodiment of a liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation capsule configured to a parallel flowmode according to an exemplary aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 9B is another view of the liquid flow control and beveragepreparation capsule shown in FIG. 9A;

FIG. 10A is a sectional view of another embodiment of a liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation capsule configured to a parallel flowmode according to an exemplary aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 10B is another view of the liquid flow control and beveragepreparation capsule shown in FIG. 10A;

FIG. 11A is a sectional view of another embodiment of a liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation capsule configured to a parallel flowmode according to an exemplary aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 11B is another view of the liquid flow control and beveragepreparation capsule shown in FIG. 11A;

FIG. 12A is a sectional view of another embodiment of a liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation capsule configurable to a flow-throughor parallel flow configuration according to an exemplary aspect of thepresent invention;

FIG. 12B is another sectional view of the liquid flow control andbeverage preparation capsule shown in FIG. 12A configured to a parallelflow mode according to an exemplary aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 12C is another sectional view of the liquid flow control andbeverage preparation capsule shown in FIG. 12A configured to aflow-through mode according to an exemplary aspect of the presentinvention;

FIG. 13A is a sectional view of one embodiment of a liquid flow controland beverage preparation pouch configured to a flow-throughconfiguration according to an exemplary aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 13B is sectional view of another embodiment of a liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation pouch configured to a flow-through modeaccording to an exemplary aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 13C is sectional view of another embodiment of a liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation pouch configured to a parallel flowmode according to an exemplary aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 14A is a front elevation view of a liquid flow control and beveragepreparation module attached to a liquid dispenser according to anexemplary aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 14B is a sectional view of one embodiment of a liquid flow controland beverage preparation module shown in FIG. 14A being configurable toa flow-through or parallel flow configuration according to an exemplaryaspect of the present invention;

FIG. 14C is a sectional view of another embodiment of a liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation module configured to a flow-throughmode according to an exemplary aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 14D is a sectional view of the liquid flow control and beveragepreparation module configured to a parallel flow mode according to anexemplary aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 15A is a front elevation view of a liquid flow control and beveragepreparation system integrated with a liquid dispenser according to anexemplary aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 15B is an illustrational overview of the liquid flow control andbeverage preparation system shown in FIG. 15A being configurable toflow-through and/or parallel flow modes according to an exemplary aspectof the present invention;

FIG. 15C is an enlarged view of the liquid flow control and beveragepreparation system taken along line 15C-15C in FIG. 15B configured to aflow-through mode according to an exemplary aspect of the presentinvention;

FIG. 15D is an enlarged view of the liquid flow control and beveragepreparation system taken along line 15D-15D in FIG. 15B configured to aparallel flow mode according to an exemplary aspect of the presentinvention;

FIG. 15E is an enlarged view of the liquid flow control and beveragepreparation system taken along line 15E-15E in FIG. 15B configured to aflow-through mode according to an exemplary aspect of the presentinvention;

FIG. 15F is an enlarged view of the liquid flow control and beveragepreparation system taken along line 15F-15F in FIG. 15B configured to aflow-through and parallel flow mode according to an exemplary aspect ofthe present invention;

FIG. 16A is a front elevation view of a liquid flow control and beveragepreparation system integrated with a liquid dispenser according to anexemplary aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 16B is an illustrational overview of the liquid flow control andbeverage preparation system shown in FIG. 16A being configurable toflow-through and/or parallel flow modes according to an exemplary aspectof the present invention;

FIG. 16C is an enlarged view of the liquid flow control and beveragepreparation system taken along line 16C-16C in FIG. 16B configured to aflow-through mode according to an exemplary aspect of the presentinvention;

FIG. 16D is an enlarged view of the liquid flow control and beveragepreparation system taken along line 16D-16D in FIG. 16B configured to aparallel flow mode according to an exemplary aspect of the presentinvention;

FIG. 16E is an enlarged view of the liquid flow control and beveragepreparation system taken along line 16E-16E in FIG. 16B configured to aflow-through mode according to an exemplary aspect of the presentinvention;

FIG. 17A is a front elevation view of a multi-body liquid flow controland beverage preparation system integrated with a liquid dispenseraccording to an exemplary aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 17B is an enlarged sectional view of the multi-body liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation system shown in FIG. 17A according toan exemplary aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 17C is a sectional view of another embodiment of the multi-bodyliquid flow control and beverage preparation system shown in FIG. 17Baccording to an exemplary aspect of the present invention;

FIG. 17D is a sectional view of another embodiment of the multi-bodyliquid flow control and beverage preparation system shown in FIG. 17Baccording to an exemplary aspect of the present invention; and

FIG. 18 is an illustration of attachment and sealing interfaces forconnecting and sealing together embodiments of the liquid flow controland beverage preparation capsules, pouches, pods and/or cartridges ofthe present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been set forthwithin the drawings and in the foregoing description and althoughspecific terms are employed, these are used in the genericallydescriptive sense only are not used for the purposes of limitation.Changes in the formed proportioned of parts as well as in thesubstitution of equivalents are contemplated as circumstances maysuggest or are rendered expedient without departing from the spirit andscope of the invention as further defined in the following descriptionand claims.

Overview

The apparatuses, methods and systems of the present invention providethe necessary fluid flow control and beverage preparation architecture,components, structure, to enable various types of the liquid dispenserto have the requisite liquid flow structure to dispense a broad varietyof beverages.

Currently, most liquid dispensers are designed to provide liquid at theoutlet that is passed through a liquid flow path from the liquid source.The flow structure within the liquid dispenser stays rigid and fixedcomponents which don't allow for the different type of flow regimesneeded to prepare various types of beverages. Furthermore, the flowarchitecture within fluid dispensers is designed and implemented withoutcontemplation of the liquid dispenser being engineered or altered toprovide the necessary flow regimes, architecture, or structure toprepare various types of beverages for dispensing. It is therefore thedesire of the present invention to provide the necessary liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation apparatuses, methods and systems thatallow for commercially available liquid dispensers to be enabled toprovide a myriad of beverages which inherently require that the flowstructure or flow regimes of the liquid dispenser be reconfigured tomeet the different requirements for preparing different beverages. It isnot only the desire of the present invention to allow for commerciallyavailable liquid dispensers to be enabled with a liquid flow control andbeverage preparation apparatus, method or system, but it is also thedesire of the present invention to provide the necessary liquid flow andbeverage preparation constructs within the manufacture and production ofvarious types of liquid dispensers, including an indoor ice/waterdispenser for a refrigerated appliance. It is a further desire of thepresent invention to provide liquid flow control and beveragepreparation apparatuses, methods and systems wherein the liquid flowcontrol architecture and beverage preparation components arereconfigurable to enable the preparation of various types of beverages.For example, the present invention contemplates the ability to enable aliquid dispenser with the necessary liquid flow and beverage preparationarchitecture to allow the liquid dispenser to be reconfigured from atraditional flow-through configuration (where liquid from the liquidsource passes generally through a liquid flow path to the outlet whichdispenses to a receiving point) to some other flow configuration or modewhich enables the liquid dispenser to prepare one or more types ofbeverages. Additionally, the present invention further contemplates thecombination or addition of a beverage preparation system with the liquidflow control system, wherein the liquid flow control system may bereconfigured to accommodate the specific structure, or flow regimeneeded to prepare a beverage using the beverage preparation system.Because the present invention allows liquid dispensers to be enabledwith the requisite liquid flow architecture, constructs orconfigurations to provide multiple liquid dispensing flow scenarios,multiple enhancement or enhanced beverage dispensing scenarios arepossible, and no longer limited by the commercial flow control structurethat may be included in a commercially available liquid dispenser.Further, the present invention allows manufacturing and production toenable new liquid dispensing products with the flow control architectureof the present invention whereby the liquid dispenser may be used incombination with the beverage preparation systems of the presentinvention to provide a myriad of beverage types depending on the typedesired.

Liquid Dispensers

FIGS. 1A-1E illustrate various types of commercially available liquiddispensing apparatuses 10. Liquid dispensing apparatuses 10 shown inFIGS. 1A-1E are not exhaustive of the numerous types of liquiddispensers that are commercially available, currently being contemplatedand designed, and/or will be designed in the future. This means that thepresent invention is not limited to application in the illustratedliquid dispensing apparatuses 10, but the present invention contemplatesapplication within liquid dispensing apparatuses currently in productionor those that will be produced in the future. In short, FIGS. 1A-1E aremerely exemplary liquid dispensing apparatuses shown to provide somebasis for the breadth and scope of the present invention, which is tomean that the present invention is not limited to application withinonly liquid dispensing apparatuses 10 shown in FIGS. 1A-1E, but any typeof liquid dispenser that provides a liquid flow path dispensing liquidto a receiving point. The present invention is applicable in any suchscenario where a liquid flow path dispenses to a receiving point ascontemplated by the numerous types of liquid dispensers, including thoseillustrated in FIGS. 1A-1E. As indicated, common elements exist in allliquid dispensers. These elements are embodied and illustrated in FIGS.1A-1E. For example, liquid dispensing apparatus 10, shown in FIG. 1A isa refrigerated appliance, and includes a liquid flow path 12 whichallows liquid to be communicated from source 16 through inlet 14 intothe refrigerated appliance, which is dispensed to outlet 18 at receivingpoint 20. Thus, in the broad sense, refrigerated appliance shown in FIG.1A, has the general basic components needed for dispensing liquid to areceiving point from a source. In the case of the refrigerated applianceshown in FIG. 1A, the source is often a valve to which water is suppliedfrom a plumbed water distribution network, such as a well or a municipalwater plant. Those skilled in the art can appreciate that source 16 canalso be a local source originating in a container or bottle for holdinga quantity of liquid at the appliance, such as the liquid dispensingapparatuses 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1B-1C. Like the refrigeratedappliance shown in FIG. 1A, liquid dispensing apparatuses 10 illustratedin FIGS. 1B-1C have a liquid source 16 designed to hold a fixed quantityof liquid which is replenishable by exchanging the bottle for a fullone. Liquid from the liquid source 16 is dispensed from outlet 18 atreceiving point 20 by traveling from source 16 to outlet 18 throughliquid flow path 12. Another liquid dispensing apparatus 10 isillustrated in FIG. 1D. Similar to those previously described, liquiddispensing apparatus 10 illustrated in FIG. 1D receives liquid from asource 16 received at an inlet 14 in the liquid dispensing apparatus 10which passes through liquid flow path 12 and is dispensed through outlet18 at receiving point 20. FIG. 1E illustrates another liquid dispensingapparatus 10. In FIG. 1E the pair of facets receive liquid from a liquidsource 16, such as a water distribution network. Liquid travels throughthe liquid flow path 12 and is dispensed through outlet 18 at thereceiving point 20. Thus, in both instances illustrated in FIG. 1E,liquid is communicated from a liquid source 16 and dispensed through thepair of facets at a receiving point 20.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1E, liquid dispensing apparatuses 10 aredesigned with one purpose, that is to dispense liquid from liquid source16 through outlet 18 at receiving point 20. As such, liquid flow path 12is designed to communicate liquid from liquid source 16 to outlet 18 atreceiving point 20 of liquid dispensing apparatus 10. Because of thedesign of the liquid flow path 12 in liquid dispensing apparatuses 10illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1E, liquid dispensing apparatuses 10 may requirea different liquid flow scenario when preparing various types ofbeverages. Accordingly, the present invention contemplates liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation apparatuses, methods and systems thatenable liquid dispensing apparatuses 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1E, andany other type of liquid dispenser, with the requisite liquid flowarchitecture or liquid flow configurations needed to facilitatepreparation of various types of beverages.

Integration Concepts

FIGS. 2-4B illustrate various means for enabling the liquid dispenser ofthe refrigerated appliance shown in FIG. 1A with the liquid flow controland beverage preparation apparatuses, methods and systems of the presentinvention. As previously discussed, the present invention is not limitedto use in the liquid dispenser of a refrigerated appliance, butcontemplates use in any liquid dispenser, such as a faucet (see FIG.1E), a countertop water dispenser (see FIG. 1B), a free standing watercooler (see FIG. 1C), a water dispensing cabinet (see FIG. 1D), a waterbubbler, an under-counter dispenser (see FIG. 1E), or any like waterdispenser. FIG. 2 illustrates the liquid dispenser of the refrigeratedappliance shown in FIG. 1A. Liquid dispensing apparatus 10 includes aliquid flow path 12 through which liquid is received from inlet 14through outlet 18 to receiving point 20. Thus, liquid dispensingapparatus 10, like other liquid dispensers, has a liquid flow path 12having an inlet 14 adapted for fluid communication with a source 16 (seeFIG. 1A) and an outlet 18 adapted for fluid communication with areceiving point 20.

FIG. 3A illustrates liquid dispensing apparatus 10 having an attachmentinterface 24 whereby one or more of the embodiments of the liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation apparatuses, methods and systems of thepresent invention may be secured or removably received, such as forexample at a liquid dispenser of a refrigerated appliance. Attachmentinterface 24 may be configured in liquid dispensing apparatus 10 duringmanufacturing or production of the unit or at any time after manufactureand production of the unit by providing attachment interface 24 as aretrofittable or add-on component. Thus, the present inventioncontemplates that the apparatuses, methods and systems for liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation could be configured into the liquiddispenser during manufacturing and production or after the fact by useof aftermarket, retrofit or add-on componentry. As shown in FIG. 3A,liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsule 100 has acorresponding attachment interface 114 adapted to secure to attachmentinterface 24 in liquid dispensing apparatus 10. In this instance, liquidflow control and beverage preparation capsule 100 is attached at theoutlet 18 of liquid flow path 12 of liquid dispensing apparatus 10. Thepresent invention contemplates that the apparatuses, methods and systemsfor liquid flow control and beverage preparation may be removablyreceived, removably attached, removably inserted, or removablypositioned at any point along liquid flow path 12. For example, liquidflow control and beverage preparation capsule 100 could be positionedbetween inlet 14 and outlet 18 of liquid flow path 12. Thus, beveragepreparation capsule 100 could be positionable at any point along liquidflow path 12 depending upon the desired location or permitted space.

FIG. 3B illustrates attachment interface 24 configured into liquiddispensing apparatus 10 about liquid flow path 12 before outlet 18. Inthe aspects illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3C, liquid flow control and beveragepreparation capsule 100 is threadably mated to liquid dispensingapparatus 10. For example, liquid flow control and beverage preparationcapsule 100 is configured with a threaded attachment interface 114 thatmates with threaded attachment interface 24 in liquid dispensingapparatus 10, as best illustrated in FIGS. 3B-3C. Using threadedattachments 24, 114 allows liquid flow control and beverage preparationcapsule 100 to be removably received at outlet 18 in liquid dispensingapparatus 10 by threading capsule 100 onto attachment interface 24 inliquid dispensing apparatus 10, as illustrated in FIG. 3C.

FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate another means for removably securing capsule 100to liquid dispensing apparatus 10. As illustrated in FIG. 4A, liquiddispensing apparatus 10 includes an attachment interface 24 about liquidflow path 12 at outlet 18 whereby capsule 100 is removably secured aboutliquid flow path 12 using attachment interface 114. FIG. 4B illustratesattachment interface 114 secured to attachment interface 24 on liquiddispensing apparatus 10 for removably holding capsule 100 about liquiddispensing outlet 18.

FIGS. 3A-4B illustrate exemplary attachment interfaces or means forsecuring the apparatuses, methods and systems of the present inventionfor liquid flow control and beverage preparation. Those skilled in theart can appreciate that any number of attachment mechanisms or means maybe used to secure the apparatuses, methods and systems of the presentinvention within, about or to liquid dispensing apparatus 10.Preferably, at least one of the parts of the liquid flow control andbeverage preparation apparatus, illustrated in the various embodimentsof the present invention, includes a means for interacting with theliquid dispensing apparatus 10, such as an attachment interface, so asto provide a secure connection between the device and liquid dispensingapparatus 10, such as an indoor dispenser of a refrigerated appliance.For example, the liquid flow control and beverage preparation apparatusas illustrated in the various embodiments of the present invention maybe secured, whether removably or permanently, to liquid dispensingapparatus 10 using any of the known attachment mechanisms such asthreads (see FIGS. 3A-3C), snaps, pin engagements (see FIGS. 4A-4B),interference, compression or friction fits, or any other connectivemeans commonly known by those skilled in the art. For example, FIGS.4A-4B illustrate a device with a handle for securing liquid flow controland beverage preparation capsule 100 to liquid dispensing apparatus 10.The device may include means, such as an attachment interface forsecuring it to the attachment interface 24 in liquid dispensingapparatus 10. It should be noted that capsule 100 may be integrallyformed with such a device or separate therefrom. It is not necessary fora capsule 100 to contain separate attaching means, but may includeattachment interface 114, that alone allows securement of capsule 100 toliquid dispensing apparatus 10. In the case of the device shown in FIGS.4A-4B, the device may be used as many times as the capsule 100 isconsumed and refilled. The device may also be periodically washed so asto further minimize the potential for back contamination of liquidpassing through the liquid flow path 12 in the liquid dispensingapparatus 10.

Liquid Flow Configurations

As shown in FIGS. 5A-5D, liquid flowing through liquid flow path 106 andthen provided as beverage 18 for serving or drinking may be controlled,guided and/or directed in varying flow paths depending on the type flowscenarios required for preparation of beverage 118. This isaccomplished, by directing liquid flow through one or more beveragepreparation processes using liquid flow path 106. Thus, the desiredbeverage 118, will likely determine the configuration of the liquid flowpaths. Furthermore, those skilled in the art can appreciate thatdifferent type of enhancement components used to prepare different typesof beverages 118 require different fluid liquid constructs. Severaltypes of liquid flow configurations and beverage preparation systems toaccomplish the aforementioned objectives of the present invention willnow be described, however this list is intended to be descriptive ratherthan exhaustive of all the various type of liquid flow configurationsfor facilitating and preparing beverage 118 using the apertures, methodsand systems for liquid flow control and beverage preparation.

FIG. 5A illustrates one exemplary aspect of a flow-through configuration102 of the present invention. In the flow-through configuration 102,liquid is communicated through liquid flow path 106 passing throughremovable assembly 142, which may comprise any one or more of theapparatuses, methods and systems of the present invention. For example,liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsule 100 may bepositioned anywhere between inlet 124 and outlet 126 of liquid flow path106, whether with removable assembly 142 or by itself. Liquid passingthrough liquid flow path 106 passes through removable assembly 142 whichmay comprise any one of the liquid flow control and beverage preparationcapsules, modules, pouches, cartridges, pods or other constructs of thepresent invention. Thus, in the instance of FIG. 5, removable assembly142 is used as a generic term for all the different types of liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation capsules, pods, cartridges, modules,pouches or other constructs of the present invention that may bepositioned between inlet 124 and outlet 126 of liquid flow path 106. Asliquid passes through removable assembly 142, the liquid may be combinedwith or affected by an enhancement component (not shown) within theremovable assembly 142, thereby dispensing as beverage 118 by changingthe nature, such as the chemical or physical nature of liquid passingthrough liquid flow path 106. Throughout the application, the term“enhancement component” is used. The term enhancement component is to beunderstood, but not limited to, any flavoring component, a solublecomponent, a non-soluble component, a powder, a liquid, a brew, anutraceutical, a medicine, a mineral, a vitamin, an aroma, anycombination of the aforementioned enhancement components, or anycombination of the aforementioned enhancement components where oneenhancement component interacts or reacts with another or with liquid inthe liquid flow path to provide the desired beverage. For example, theenhancement component could be a syrup or powder concentrate, coffee ortea grounds. The present invention further contemplates that theenhancement component may be not only to add to a liquid to provide abeverage but also take away a component or some feature/componentalready existing or added to the liquid to provide a beverage, such asin the case where apparatuses, methods and systems of the presentinvention are used to provide filtering, purifying, or otherconditioning processes of liquid known to others having ordinary skillin the art. Thus, as liquid passes through liquid flow path 106 shown inFIG. 5A, liquid may be chemically or physically altered to providebeverage 118 at outlet 126 of removable assembly 142 using anenhancement component. In the case where removable assembly 142 is emptyor without an enhancement component, liquid passing through liquid flowpath 106 dispenses at the outlet 126 being unchanged. For example, inthe case where water is communicated through liquid flow path 106, andnot changed or affected by an enhancement component, water dispenses atoutlet 126 as the beverage 118. Thus, depending upon the desiredbeverage, a removable assembly 142 may or may not include an enhancementcomponent.

FIG. 5A is described as a flow-through configuration 102. The presentinvention uses the term “flow-through” to indicate the origination of aflow stream from the inlet 124 passing through flow path 106 whetherdirectly, indirectly or divertedly through chamber or a removableassembly 142 configured for receipt of one or more of the liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation devices of the present invention.“Flow-through is also used to indicate liquid dispensed at an outlet inthe same liquid flow path having the inlet. Thus, the use of the term“flow-through” should be understood as liquid in the liquid flow path106 flowing through the housing, chamber, location or spot where theenhancement component resides.

FIG. 5B illustrates another flow-through configuration 102. For thepurposes of the present invention, flow-through configuration 102illustrated in FIG. 5B further defines the use of the term flow-through.As previously discussed with regard to FIG. 5A, liquid passes throughliquid flow path 106 between an inlet 124 and one or more outlets 126.In the case of flow-through configuration 102 shown in FIG. 5A, all theliquid passing through liquid flow path 106 travels undiverted throughliquid flow path 106. In the case of flow-through configuration 102shown in FIG. 5B, a portion of liquid passing through liquid flow path106 is diverted through another liquid flow path 106 between the inlet124 and the outlet 126 of the overall liquid flow path 106. The divertedportion travels through the liquid flow path 106 and is passed throughremovable assembly 142. In FIG. 5B, removable assembly 142 includes anenhancement component (not shown). The enhancement component could beincluded with or part of any one of the apparatuses, methods and systemsof the present invention. The liquid passing through removable assembly142 or any of the apparatus, methods, or systems of the presentinvention, alone or in combination with removable assembly 142 iscombined with or affected by the enhancement component and dispenses atthe outlet 126 as a beverage. Liquid passing through the removableassembly 142 is combined with or affected by an enhancement componentand then travels through enhancement flow path 108 to a mixing point 110where it combines with liquid in the liquid flow path 106 at mixing 110to provide beverage 118. Because, like the scenario shown in FIG. 5A,liquid passes directly through the enhancement component (not shown) inremovable assembly 142, the liquid flow scenario illustrated in FIG. 5Bis considered a “flow-through” configuration 102.

FIG. 5C illustrates a “parallel flow” configuration 104. According tothe flow configuration illustrated in FIG. 5C, liquid is passed throughthe liquid flow path 106 from inlet 124 directly to outlet 126. Aremovable assembly 142 is provided having an enhancement component (notshown) to combine with or affect liquid passing through liquid flow path106. As with previous flow configurations, removable assembly 142 mayinclude any one or more of the liquid flow control and beveragepreparation devices of the present invention, whether alone or incombination with removable assembly 142. Using force or pressure 120, anenhancement component is dispensed through enhancement flow path 108 tomixing point 110, where enhancement component travelling throughenhancement flow path 108 combines with or affects liquid passingthrough liquid flow path 106 to provide beverage 118. As will be laterdescribed, force or pressure 120 causing enhancement component todispense through enhancement path 108 may include, but should not belimited to, force 120 acting on a bladder or membrane housingenhancement component causing the enhancement component to dispensethrough enhancement flow path 108, or housing enhancement component in apre-pressurized membrane or housing that upon opening the housing ormembrane, pressure within the housing or membrane dispenses theenhancement component into the enhancement flow path 108 for mixing withliquid from the liquid flow path 106 at the mixing point 110 to preparebeverage 118. The pressure/force acting to dispense the enhancementcomponent could be derived from a positive or negative head pressureresulting from passing liquid through or into liquid flow path 106, suchas where vacuum or Venturi effect is used to draw the enhancementcomponent into the liquid flow path 106 or where positive head pressureof the liquid acts on a bladder holding the enhancement component. Theterm “parallel flow” is distinguishable from a “flow-through” scenario.The use of the term “parallel flow” within the present invention is usedto indicate the presence of a liquid flow stream originating separatelyfrom the liquid flow path 106 which passes through an enhancement flowpath 108 to combine with liquid from the liquid flow path 106. Thus, theuse of the term “parallel flow” will indicate flow-through scenarioswhere the enhancement flow path originates and travels separately fromthe liquid flow path until the two are combined to prepare a stage or afinal form of the beverage.

FIG. 5D illustrates another parallel flow configuration 104. In FIG. 5D,liquid passes from inlet 124 through liquid flow path 106 into removableassembly 142. Liquid passes through liquid flow path 106 then removablyassembly 142 and exits removable assembly 142 through outlet 126. Thepassing of liquid through liquid flow path 106 within removable assembly142 causes an enhancement component (not shown) to dispense fromremovably assembly 142 through outlets 126 into enhancement flow path108. Enhancement flow paths 108 and liquid flow path 106 join at mixingpoint 110 to provide beverage 118. In the flow scenario illustrated inFIG. 5D, enhancement flow paths 108 originate and travel separately fromliquid flow path 106 until the point at which liquid flow path 106 andenhancement flow paths 108 combine at mixing point 110. Although theenhancement flow path 108 may be very small relative to liquid flow path106, the two flow paths are distinct from one another and flow separatefrom one another at least until the two combine at mixing point 110. Theparallel flow configuration 104 shown in FIG. 5D is designed such thatliquid passing through liquid flow path is used to move an enhancementcomponent through enhancement flow path 108 to combine with liquid fromliquid flow path 106 at mixing point 110 to provide beverage 118. Forexample, in one exemplary aspect of the present invention, passingliquid through liquid flow path 106 draws an enhancement componentthrough enhancement flow 108 path to join with liquid flow path 106 atmixing point 110 by Venturi effect or the presence of a negative head atthe outlet of enhancement flow path 108.

Although FIGS. 5A-5D illustrate flow-through and parallel flowconfigurations, those shown are not exhaustive of all the different flowconfigurations contemplated by the present invention. However, all ofthe different flow scenarios of the present invention can be describedas a “parallel flow” or “flow-through” configuration based on thedefinitions and description. The robustness of the present invention isa result of recognition that the flow-through and parallel flowconfigurations illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5D can be used separately,together, or reconfigured, for example, to take a traditionalflow-through scenario and reconfigure it to a parallel flow scenario orvice versa. Furthermore, the present invention contemplates thecombination of parallel and flow-through scenarios, for example, thecombination of one or more of the liquid flow control and beveragepreparation devices of the present invention with one or more of theother devices of the present invention to provide a combination offlow-through or parallel flow liquid dispensing scenarios. Apparatuses,methods and systems for liquid flow control and beverage preparationusing the flow scenarios described in FIGS. 5A-5D will be illustratedand discussed in subsequent figures and detailed description discussedherein. These embodiments are not exhaustive and alternatives or similarsystems are contemplated.

Liquid Flow Control and Beverage Preparation Pod

FIGS. 6A-6E illustrate one exemplary aspect of a liquid flow control andbeverage preparation pod 200 of the present invention. The illustrationsin FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate the ability of the present invention toreconfigure liquid flow control and beverage preparation pod 200 betweena flow-through configuration 202 (shown in FIG. 6C) and a parallel flowconfiguration 204 (shown in FIG. 6B). Although liquid flow control andbeverage preparation pods 200 illustrated in FIGS. 6B and 6C have manyof the same features, both can be altered to facilitate parallel orflow-through dispensing by swapping-out or changing one or more of thecomponents within the device. The benefits of being able to perform bothparallel flow-through dispensing with the same liquid flow control andbeverage preparation pod 200 will become clear by way of illustrationand discussion in the preceding descriptions. First, the ability todispense a myriad of beverages necessarily requires different liquidflow architecture within liquid flow control and beverage preparationpod 200. By way of example, a beverage resulting from brewing, such ascoffee or tea, is achieved primarily by providing a liquid flow-throughconfiguration (where liquid percolates through the brew and dispenses asa beverage). Conversely, parallel flow configurations are often best forcreating carbonated beverages and enhancing a liquid stream that hasalready received some form of conditioning or another, such as theaddition of a concentrate (such as syrup) to the carbonated liquidstream. FIG. 6A illustrates liquid flow control and beverage preparationpod 200 void of liquid flow control components. Liquid flow control andbeverage preparation pod 200 includes a liquid flow path 206 that entersinto liquid flow control and beverage preparation pod 200 by way ofinlet 224. Liquid flow path 206 having inlet 224 is adapted for liquidcommunication with a source of liquid, such as a liquid dispenser.Liquid flow control and beverage preparation pod 200 also includes anoutlet 226 adapted for communication with a receiving point where thebeverage prepared from using liquid flow control and beveragepreparation pod 200 is captured in a receptacle, such as a cup. Outlet226 of liquid flow control and beverage preparation pod 200 may includea seal or plug 228 for closing off outlet 226. The body of pod 200 mayinclude attachment interfaces 214, for securing pod 200 within or to aliquid dispenser as shown by way of example in FIGS. 3A-4B. Liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation pod 200 is designed to be positionablebetween the inlet and outlet or at the outlet of the liquid flow path ofa liquid dispenser. Furthermore, liquid flow control and beveragepreparation pod 200 is designed so that is configurable between aflow-through configuration (shown in FIG. 6C) adapted to produce theenhanced beverage 218 by passing liquid through liquid flow path 206,and a parallel flow configuration (FIG. 6B) adapted to produce theenhanced beverage 218 by passing liquid through liquid flow path 206 andan enhancement component 216 through an enhancement flow path 208, andcombining the two flow paths at a mixing point 210. Using the attachmentinterface 214 on pod 200, pod 200 could be screwed within a liquiddispenser between the inlet and outlet of the liquid flow path in theliquid dispenser or at the outlet of the liquid flow path of the liquiddispenser (see FIGS. 3A-4B).

FIG. 6B illustrates another embodiment of the liquid flow control andbeverage preparation pod 200 shown in FIG. 6A configured to a parallelflow configuration 204. Like the flow configuration illustrated in FIG.5C, in FIG. 6B a liquid flow path 206 is provided through which liquidpasses through inlet 224 of pod 200. Liquid 230 enters the chamber 232in pod 200. Chamber 232 is separated from enhancement component 216within pod 200 by membrane 222. In one aspect, enhancement component 216may be fully enclosed within membrane 222 or separated from chamber 232by membrane 222. Membrane 222, is preferably a deformable membraneconstructed of a hygienically safe material that has been approved foruse in contact with liquid flow streams for human consumption. In thecase where enhancement component 216 is housed within membrane 222,enhancement component 216 may be replenished by simply removing membrane222 from within pod 200 after each use and replacing with a new membrane222 filled with a new, unused enhancement component 216. Alternatively,in the case where membrane 222 separates enhancement component 216 fromchamber 232, pod 200 may be disassembled, washed and sanitized, andenhancement component 216 replenished within the lower half of pod 200,and covered by membrane 222 secured between the upper and lower halfportions of pod 200 when reassembled. As liquid 230 enters chamber 232through inlet 224, the pressure or force 220 associated with liquid 230,whether alone or in combination with the weight of the body of liquid230 within chamber 232, causes membrane 222 to deform. The deformationof membrane 222 causes enhancement component 216 to dispense throughoutlet 226. In the case where seal or plug 228 is not removedbeforehand, the pressure or force 220 acting on membrane 222 causes sealor plug 228 to separate from outlet 226 of pod 200. As shown in FIG. 5C,a force or pressure acts on removable assembly 142 to dispense anenhancement component through enhancement flow path 108. In the caseillustrated in FIG. 6B, liquid 230 is the pressure or force 220 actingon a membrane 222 that causes enhancement component 216 to dispensethrough enhancement flow path 208. Further, like illustrated in FIG. 5C,a separate liquid flow path is provided which combines with theenhancement flow path at a mixing point to provide a beverage. In thecase illustrated in FIG. 6B, liquid flow control and beveragepreparation pod 200 is used in combination with another liquid flow path206 through which liquid 230 passes. Liquid 230 passing through liquidflow path 206 external to pod 200 combines with enhancement component216 and enhancement flow path 208 at mixing point 210 to providebeverage 218. Although not shown, a valve or flow divider may be used,such as illustrated in FIG. 14B or 16D to partition the liquid flow path206 into two parallel liquid flow paths 206, one flow path 206 enteringthrough inlet 224 of pod 200 and the other passing externally to pod200. The valve or flow divider may be used to control the rate at whichone flow stream is introduced into the pod 200 to create the necessaryactivation pressure or force 220, or to control the relative flow ratesof enhancement component 216 dispensing from pod 200 and liquid passingthrough external flow path 206 to thereby control the concentration ofbeverage 218. In this manner, valve or flow divider may be used tocontrol the flow of liquid into pod 200 and around pod 200 to controlthe strength of beverage 218. Enhancement component 216 travelingthrough enhancement flow path 208 joins with or combines with liquid 230passing through the external liquid flow path 206 downstream of outlet226 of pod 200. The embodiment shown in FIG. 6B contemplates that themixing point could be at the outlet 226 of pod 200 in midair to formbeverage 218 which is provided at the receiving point and captured in areceptacle, such as a cup. The deformable membrane 222 within pod 200helps minimize the potential for back contamination of the liquiddispensing apparatus, such as the liquid dispensing system of arefrigerator in a case where liquid flow control and beveragepreparation pod 200 is used in combination with an indoor dispenser of arefrigerated appliance. Those skilled in the art can appreciate thatchamber 232 need not be separated from enhancement component 216 by amembrane 222. For example, an air buffer could exist within the upperportion of chamber 232 and act as a buffer between enhancement component216 in the lower portion of pod 200 and the liquid dispensing system ofthe liquid dispensing apparatus to which liquid flow control andbeverage preparation pod 200 is attached or used in combination with.Thus, by way of example, using the parallel flow configuration 204 ofpod 200 shown in FIG. 6B, an enhancement component 216, such as a syrupconcentrate, could be housed in the lower half of pod 200 and separatedfrom chamber 232 by membrane 222. The syrup concentrate is dispensedfrom pod 200 as liquid 230 applies pressure or force 220 on membrane 222to cause the syrup to dispense and subsequently combine with liquid fromthe liquid flow path 206 at mixing point 210 to provide beverage 218. Bycontrolling the pressure acting on membrane 222 and the volumetric flowof liquid 232 through liquid flow path 206 external to pod 200, theconcentration of beverage 218 may be controlled. For example, in thecase where a lightly concentrated beverage is desired, the majority offlow of liquid 230 may be diverted through liquid flow path 206 externalto pod 200 whereby liquid 230 comprises the majority component ofbeverage 218 and enhancement component 216 dispensed through enhancementflow path and combined with liquid 230 at mixing point 210 comprises aminority component of beverage 218. Alternatively, in the case where aheavily concentrated beverage is desired, the majority of flow could bediverted through pod 200 whereby enhancement component 216 dispenses ata greater rate than liquid 230 flowing through liquid flow path 206external to pod 200 such that enhancement component 216 is the majoritycomponent of beverage 218 and liquid 230 is the minority component ofbeverage 218 thereby providing a heavily concentrated beverage 218. Aspreviously indicated, liquid flow control and beverage preparation pod200 shown in 6B may be reconfigured with necessary componentry toprovide the flow-through configuration 202 of pod 200 shown in FIG. 6C.For example, pod 200 could be used in the parallel flow configuration204, subsequently rinsed and sanitized and reused to provide theflow-through configuration 202 shown in FIG. 6C.

FIG. 6C illustrates flow-through configuration 202 of liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation pod 200 according to an exemplaryaspect of the present invention. As previously indicated, by swappingout or changing the components within pod 200, pod 200 may be changed orreconfigured between parallel flow and flow-through configurations toprovide the requisite liquid flow configurations for preparation ofvarious types of beverages. For example, by reconfiguring membrane 222shown in FIG. 6B with a different type of membrane 222 shown in FIG. 6C,pod 200 shown in FIG. 6C may be used with hot, brewed, or powder-basedenhancement components 216. In the flow-through configuration 202 ofliquid flow control and beverage preparation pod 200 shown in FIG. 6C,chamber 232 is separated from enhancement component 216 by membrane 222.Membrane 222 may be a permeable membrane, such as a filter, that retainsenhancement component 216 within the lower portion of pod 200.Additionally, outlet 226 of pod 200 may be separated from enhancementcomponent 216 by another membrane 222, such as a permeable membrane. Thepresent invention contemplates that enhancement component may beentirely enclosed within permeable membrane 222 such that membrane 222may be used and disposed of and replenished by a new membrane having anew enhancement component housed within membrane 222. Alternatively,membrane 222 may be configured to lock within pod 200 to trapenhancement component 216 from escaping through outlet 226 of pod 200.In this embodiment, enhancement component 216 could be replenished aftereach use and membranes 222 could be removed, washed and sanitized aftereach subsequent use. The lower membrane 222 positioned within the lowerportion of pod 200 could have attachment points for securing membrane222 within the lower portion. Similarly, the upper membrane 222 could besecured within pod 200 using attachment points using attachment pointsin the upper portion of pod 200 after filling the lower portion of pod200 with enhancement component 216. After each use or multiple uses, theupper membrane 222 could be removed and enhancement component disposedof and replenished with a new enhancement component. Like the flowconfiguration illustrated in FIG. 5A, liquid passes through liquid flowpath and is combined or affected by an enhancement component throughwhich the liquid passes to dispense the beverage. Liquid flow controland beverage preparation pod 200 illustrated in FIG. 6C presents thesame liquid flow scenario as illustrated in FIG. 5A. Liquid flow controland beverage preparation pod 200 has a liquid flow path 206 having aninlet 224 adapted for fluid communication with a source of liquid, suchas a source of liquid available at a liquid dispensing apparatus, and anoutlet 226 adapted for fluid communication with a receiving point, suchas a receiving point provided at a liquid dispensing apparatus (seeliquid dispensing apparatus shown in FIGS. 1A-4B). Liquid flow controland beverage preparation pod 200 is designed to be positionable betweenthe inlet and outlet or at the outlet of the liquid flow path of theliquid dispensing apparatus such that liquid 230 passing through liquidflow path 206 enters pod 200 through inlet 224. Liquid 230 enters intochamber 232 and begins to fill chamber 232 and passes through permeablemembrane 222. As liquid 230 percolates through enhancement component216, liquid 230 is combined with or affected by enhancement component216 and passes through the lower permeable membrane 222 as a beverage218 which is subsequently dispensed from pod 200 through outlet 226.Seal or plug 228 may be removed prior to use of pod 200. Alternatively,the pressure or force of liquid 230 passing through pod 200 may causeseal or plug 228 to release from outlet 226 of pod 200 to thereby allowbeverage 218 to dispense through outlet 226. In this manner, pod 200 maybe used to prepare a beverage 218 that requires a flow-throughconfiguration 202 as illustrated in FIG. 6C. For example, in the casewhere a brewed beverage 218 is desired, tea, coffee or other grounds maybe placed between membranes 222 such that liquid 230, whether heated ornot, percolates through enhancement component 216 (coffee, tea or otherbrew) providing a brewed beverage 218 at outlet 226 of pod 200. Asindicated in the liquid dispensing scenario shown in FIG. 5A, removableassembly 142 could be any of the apparatuses, methods and systems forliquid flow control and beverage preparation of the present invention.The control of liquid flow into pod 200 may be controlled/enabled byanother apparatus, method or system of the present invention, such asliquid flow control and beverage preparation module 400 shown in FIG.14C or liquid flow control and beverage preparation system 500 shown inFIG. 16E. Using the modules and systems shown in FIG. 14C and FIG. 16Ein combination with a liquid dispensing apparatus, such as thoseillustrated in FIGS. 1A-4B, liquid flow through pod 200 may becontrolled. Furthermore, pod 200 may be removably inserted at the liquiddispensing interface of the liquid dispensing apparatus, using thedesired enhancement component, for providing the desired beverage. Forexample, in the case where a brewed beverage is desired, the level ofconcentrate or the level of brew may be controlled by diverting aportion of liquid passing through the liquid flow path through anexternal flow path such as the flow path 206 illustrated in FIG. 6Bpassing outside of pod 200 (see also FIG. 16D). Using, for example, theembodiment illustrated in FIG. 16D, a portion of the liquid flow may bediverted through pod 200 and external to pod 200 to thereby control thelevel of concentration of the beverage 218. This could be accomplishedby splitting a hot water stream by sending a portion of the water streamthrough pod 200 and the other portion external to pod 200 based upon thesetting of the flow divider or the valve used to separate the streams.Using an actuator or by manual operation, the proportion of liquid flowthrough and around pod 200 could be controlled to thereby control thelevel of concentration of beverage 218. In the case where a strongbeverage is desired, all of the liquid flow could be directed throughpod 200 to combine with enhancement component 216 and dispense asbeverage 218. Alternatively, in the case where a weaker beverage 218 isdesired, a majority of the flow may be diverted around pod 200 such thatthe majority of liquid flow passes through the liquid flow path andrecombines with enhancement component in the enhancement flow path toprovide a less concentrated beverage 218.

FIGS. 7A-7C illustrate another exemplary liquid flow control andbeverage preparation pod 200 of the present invention. Like pod 200illustrated in FIG. 6A, pod 200 shown in FIG. 7A includes an upper andlower portion which may be disassembled for changing the internalcomponents of pod 200. Pod 200 is configured and adapted to bepositionable between the inlet and outlet of a liquid flow path of aliquid dispensing apparatus or at the outlet of a liquid dispensingapparatus. For example, pod 200 could be secured at the liquiddispensing outlet 18 of the water/ice dispenser of a refrigeratedappliance using one or more of the attachment means shown (see FIG. 4A).Pod 200 is designed to be configurable between flow-throughconfiguration 202 (shown in FIG. 6C) and parallel flow configuration 204(shown in FIG. 7B) by swapping out the internal components of pod 200.Liquid flow control and beverage preparation pod 200 also includesattachment interfaces 214 which may be used in securing pod 200 at theoutlet of a liquid dispensing apparatus as shown in FIGS. 3A, 3C, and4A-4B. Pod 200 also includes outlets 226 in a bottom portion wherein oneor more of outlets 226 may have a reduced diameter to restrict or anenlarged diameter to allow greater liquid flows depending upon thedesired flow through outlets 226 in the bottom portion of pod 200. FIG.7B illustrates the parallel flow configuration 204 of liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation pod 200. Pod 204 may include upper andlower portions that disassemble from one another allowing forreplenishment of enhancement component 216, washing and sanitizing ofcomponents within pod 204 or pod components themselves, or exchangingpod components to reconfigure pod 204 to a flow-through configuration202, as shown in FIG. 7C. Enhancement component 216 is separated fromchamber 232 in pod 204 by membrane 222. Like previous embodiments,membrane 222 may be a flexible membrane to allow for deformation whenacted upon by a pressure/force 220 created by liquid 230. Membrane 222may totally enclose enhancement component 216 such that when enhancementcomponent 216 has been entirely used, membrane 222 may be removed frompod 204, discarded, and replaced with a new membrane 222 having a newenhancement component 216. Alternatively, membrane 222 may be configuredto affix to pod 204 when assembled such that membrane 222 may be filledwith the desired quantity of enhancement component 216 and enclosed byassembling pod 204 (attaching lower portion to upper portion). Thus,liquid 230 passing through liquid flow path 206 enters chamber 232 ofpod 204. Either the weight of liquid 230 or the pressure/forceassociated with liquid 230 entering pod 204, or both, may causedeformation of membrane 222 when pressure/force 220 acts on membrane222. The deflation or collapsing of membrane 222 causes enhancementcomponent 216 to dispense through enhancement flow path 208 while liquid230 dispenses through liquid flow path 206 at outlet 226 of pod 204. Thetwo flow paths, the liquid flow path 206 and enhancement flow path 208combine at mixing point 210 to provide beverage 218. This means thatliquid 230 passes through pod 204, through liquid flow path 206 atoutlet 226 and combines with enhancement component 216 passing throughenhancement flow path 208 at outlet 226; the two combine at mixing point210 to provide beverage 218. Regarding the liquid flow path 206 andenhancement flow paths 208 at the outlet 226 of pod 204, one or moreplugs or seals 228 (not shown) may be used to seal or plug outlets 226to prevent premature escaping of liquid 230 or enhancement component 216from pod 204. The seal or plug 228 may also be included at the inlet 224of pod 204 such that as liquid 230 is passed through liquid flow path206 toward inlet 224, the seal or plug at inlet 224 and outlets 226 ofpod 204 are broken, ruptured or displaced simultaneously to allowdispensing from pod 204 through liquid flow paths 206 and enhancementflow paths 208. Unlike parallel flow configuration 204 of liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation pod 200 shown in FIG. 6B, flow controlof liquid through outlets 226 in pod 204 shown in FIG. 7B is controlledby manipulating the diameter of the orifices of outlets 226 (enhancementflow paths 208 and liquid flow path 206 passing through pod 204 atoutlet 226). For example, the aperture of liquid flow path 206 at outlet226 of pod 204 could be relatively large compared to the diameter of theorifices of enhancement flow paths 208 at outlet 226 of pod 204. In thisconfiguration, liquid 230 would be the majority component of beverage218 where enhancement component 216 would be the minority component ofbeverage 218 to thereby provide a weaker concentrated beverage 218.Alternatively, the orifice size of enhancement flow paths 208 at outlet226 of pod 204 could be enlarged relative to the orifice size of liquidflow path 206 at outlet 226 of pod 204 so that a greater portion ofenhancement component 216 is dispensed and combined with liquid 230 fromliquid flow path 206. In another aspect of the parallel flowconfiguration 204 illustrated in FIG. 7B, the diameter of the orificefor liquid flow path 206 may be restricted to increase the force orpressure 220 acting on membrane 222 and at the same time restrict thevolumetric flow of liquid 230 flowing out liquid flow path 206. If aheavily concentrated beverage 218 is desired, the diameter of theorifice for liquid flow path 206 may be significantly decreased relativeto the size of the diameter of the orifices for the enhancement flowpaths 208 such that a larger pressure or force 220 acts on membrane 222to cause enhancement component 216 to dispense at a faster rate relativeto liquid 230 dispensing through liquid flow path 206 thereby increasingthe concentration of enhancement component 216 in beverage 218. Thepresent invention also contemplates that pod 204 may be reconfiguredwith a bottom portion having varying orifice sizes for liquid flow path206 and enhancement flow paths 208 depending upon the desiredconcentration of beverage 218. Thus, for example, if a strong beverage218 is desired, a bottom portion with the requisite diameter orifices isselected to construct pod 204 to provide the desired concentration ofbeverage 218. It is contemplated that the user may select, for example,a weak, average or strong concentration bottom portion of pod 204 withthe requisite orifice diameters to provide the desired concentration ofbeverage 218. By selecting the bottom portion with the desired orificediameters and assembling pod 204 with the bottom portion having thedesired diameter of orifices or concentration rating, the user cancontrol the strength or concentration of beverage 218. In the parallelflow configuration 204 of liquid flow control and beverage preparationpod 200 shown in FIG. 6B, the concentration of beverage 218 iscontrolled by valving or dividing the flow stream to control the volumeof liquid versus enhancement component; whereas with parallel flowconfiguration 204 of pod 200 shown in FIG. 7B, the concentration ofenhancement component in beverage 218 is controlled by altering thediameter of the orifices for enhancement flow paths 208 and liquid flowpath 206. Those skilled in the art can appreciate that the rate at whichliquid is introduced into pod 204 may be controlled by valving or flowsplitters or some other geometry, other than by controlling theproportional liquid flows using differing orifice diameters. The presentinvention also contemplates that orifice restrictors may be provided toreduce the diameter of the orifice of the liquid flow path to increasethe amount of concentration of enhancement component 216 in beverage218. The restrictors may be included with the bottom portion of pod 204or provided as a separate component that are inserted into one or moreof the orifices at the outlet 226 of pod 204. In another aspect of thepresent invention, the proportion of the enhancement component 216dispensed relative to the proportion of liquid 230 may be controlled bychanging the elasticity of membrane 222 to allow a desired amount ofdeformation for a fixed force or pressure 220 acting on membrane 220 todispense enhancement component 216 from pod 204. For example, a thickerwalled membrane 222 may have a stiffer rigidity and thereby preventdeformation of membrane 222 when acted upon by force or pressure 220,whereas a thinner membrane 222 would be more susceptible to deformationwhen acted upon by the same force or pressure 220. Thus, by altering thematerial type and/or thickness of membrane 222, the relative proportionsof enhancement component 216 to liquid component 230 being dispensed maybe controlled to thereby control the concentration of enhancementcomponent 216 in beverage 218. In addition to controlling the ratio orproportion of enhancement component 216 to the liquid component 230,membrane 222 provides a bather between enhancement component 216 andliquid 230 to prevent enhancement component 216 and/or contaminants frombeing drawn back up into the liquid dispensing system, such as liquiddispensing apparatuses 10 shown and/or illustrated in FIGS. 1A-4B.Similarly, because enhancement component 216 combines with liquid 230 ata mixing point 210 beyond outlets 226 and pod 204 in mid-air, thelikelihood of contaminants being drawn back up into pod 204 or liquiddispensing system of liquid dispensing apparatuses 10 (shown in previousfigures) is minimized.

FIG. 7C illustrates the companion pod to the parallel flow configuration204 of pod 200 shown in FIG. 7B. Thus, pod 204 illustrated in FIG. 7Bmay be reconfigured with different components to provide a flow-throughconfiguration 202 as illustrated in FIG. 7C. Pod 202 illustrated in FIG.7C is configured for providing a beverage 218 that is created usingenhancement components 216, such as for example coffee, tea, or powder,which are used to impart, affect or combine with liquid 230 communicatedinto pod 202 through inlet 224 of liquid flow path 206. Pod 202illustrated in FIG. 7C is not limited to use with only coffee, tea orpowders. Other enhancement components 216 may be used, such as forexample gels or liquid concentrates. According to one aspect of pod 202shown in FIG. 7C, a pair of permeable membranes 222, such as a filtermembrane, are provided wherein enhancement component 216 is retainedbetween the two. For example, the void between the two permeablemembranes 222 may be filled with an enhancement component 216, such ascoffee or tea grounds (or any brewable grounds) or even a powdersubstance whereby liquid 230, is passed through inlet 224 of pod 202,travels through permeable membrane 222, and percolates throughenhancement component 216 to combine, join or be affected by enhancementcomponent 216 to dispense as a beverage 218 for drinking, serving orother uses. Like pod 200 illustrated in FIG. 6C, pod 202 may bedisassembled and membranes 222 taken out, washed and sanitized andreplaced along with enhancement component 216. Upper and lower portionsof pod 202 may also be washed and sanitized in the process of rechargingor replenishing enhancement component 216. With the reconfiguration ofpod 200 from parallel flow configuration 204 shown in FIG. 7B toflow-through configuration 202 shown in FIG. 7C, beverage 218 passingthrough the lower permeable membrane 222 is discharged from pod 202through the orifices at the outlet 226 of pod 202. In this embodiment,because pod 202 is a flow-through configuration, liquid 230 passingthrough pod 202 combines with or is affected by enhancement component216. Liquid 230 combined with or affected by enhancement component 216is subsequently dispensed from pod 202 through any one of the orificesat the outlet 226 of pod 202 to provide beverage 218. Like previousembodiments, the upper portion of pod 202 includes a chamber 232 thatreceives liquid 230 from inlet 224 of liquid flow path 206. An airbuffer may be set up within chamber 232 of pod 202 to prevent backcontamination of the liquid dispensing system of the liquid dispensingapparatus 10 (see liquid dispensing apparatuses by way of exampleillustrated in FIGS. 1A-4B). The air buffer created or setup withinchamber 232 provides a gap or separation between liquid 230 that hascome into contact with membrane 222 or enhancement component 216 frombeing drawn back up into or coming back into contact with components ofthe liquid dispensing system of any one of the dispensing apparatuseswith which pod 202 is used with. In addition to an air buffer, amaterial buffer may also be used. A material buffer could be a one-wayvalve placed at the inlet 224 of pod 202 to prevent backflow of liquid230 once liquid 230 is introduced into pod 202. One or more plugs orseals (not shown) could be included at inlet 224 and outlets 226 of pod202 to preserve enhancement component 216 and protect pod 202 frombecoming contaminated. Seals or plugs at inlet 224 and outlets 226 ofpod 202 could be configured to rupture, dislodge or open uponcommunication of liquid 230 through liquid flow path 206. Depending uponthe desired dispensing regime of beverage 218, seals or plugs at outlets226 and inlet 224 could be designed to open, rupture or be displacedsimultaneously or in sequence. For example, a seal or plug at inlet 224of pod 202 could be designed with a weaker structure so that the sealruptures or opens prior to the seals opening or rupturing at outlets 226of pod 202 to thereby allow liquid 230 to enter and fill a substantialportion of the lower portion of pod 202 and some of the chamber 232before the lower seal opens. By configuring the seals in the outlets 226of pod 202 to open or be displaced after the seal at the inlet, liquid230 within pod 202 is given a chance to percolate within enhancementcomponent 216 for a longer period of time until the pressure/force 220ruptures or opens the seals or plugs at the outlets 226 of pod 202.Those skilled in the art can appreciate that the material type,thickness or interference fit of a plug within outlets 226 of pod 202could be configured to control the amount of liquid or the volume ofliquid 230 that is received within pod 202 prior to the seal beingruptured or opened or the plug being displaced from outlets 226. Usingthis type of flow control regime allows pod 202 to provide anotherfeature for controlling the flow and subsequently the concentration ofenhancement component 216 in beverage 218.

Liquid Flow Control and Beverage Preparation Capsules

FIGS. 8A-8D illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation capsule 100. Specifically, FIGS. 8A-8Cillustrate a flow-through configuration 102 of liquid flow control andbeverage preparation capsule 100. FIG. 8D illustrates a parallel flowconfiguration 104 of liquid flow control and beverage preparationcapsule 100. Like the capsules and pods previously discussed, liquidflow control and beverage preparation capsule 100 may be configured withan attachment interface 114 for securing to a liquid dispensingapparatus, such as those illustrated in FIGS. 1A-4B. For example, theholding device illustrated in FIG. 4A may be used to secure capsule 100about a liquid dispensing outlet of any one or more of the liquiddispensing apparatuses previously discussed and/or contemplated. Liquidflow control and beverage preparation pod 100 may be included as acomponent part of one or more of the liquid flow control and beveragepreparation modules and systems of the present invention, such as forexample liquid flow control and beverage preparation modules illustratedin FIGS. 14A-14D or liquid flow control and beverage preparation systemsillustrated in FIGS. 15A-17D. In these instances, capsule 100 may beremovably received within any one of the liquid flow control andbeverage preparation modules or systems of the present invention, usedand subsequently recharged with the enhancement component or discarded.Additionally, as illustrated in FIG. 8B, capsule 100 may includeseparable upper and lower portions. The upper portion of capsule 100 mayinclude one or more types of attachment means such as an attachmentinterface 114 for securing to or about a liquid dispensing outlet of oneor more of the liquid dispensing apparatuses shown, illustrated orcontemplated by the present invention. The lower portion of capsule 100could be separated from the upper portion to fill chamber 132 with anenhancement component, recharge chamber 132 with a new enhancementcomponent, and/or for washing and sanitizing the lower portion ofcapsule 100. Like the other flow-through configurations previouslyillustrated and discussed, flow-through configuration 102 of capsule 100shown in FIG. 8A receives liquid 130 through liquid flow path 106 at theinlet 124 of capsule 100. Liquid entering inlet 124 could comprise anytype of conditioned liquid stream, such as a chilled, heated, carbonatedor another like condition liquid stream. For example, some liquiddispensing apparatuses dispense various types of conditioned liquidstreams whether heated, chilled or carbonated. Any liquid streampreparable by the liquid dispensing could be presented at the inlet 124of capsule 100. As previously discussed, the type of liquid stream orthe conditioning of the liquid 130 will depend upon the type of beveragebeing prepared. For example, in the case of preparing a brewed beverage,the liquid stream is a heated liquid stream. Liquid dispensingapparatuses that prepare and dispense heated liquid streams are known inthe art.

Internally, capsule 100 may be partitioned into one or more chambers132. Enhancement component 116 is stored or housed within the one ormore chambers 132. Liquid flow path 106 is in fluid communication withone or more of the chambers via ports 134 extending through the chamberwalls. Thus, liquid flow path 106 travels through a central liquid flowpath 106 and through ports 134 into chambers 132 housing enhancementcomponent 116. Those skilled in the art can appreciate that the diameterof ports 134 and central liquid flow path 106 could be enlarged orrestricted to vary the volumetric flow of liquid 130 through ports 134and liquid flow path 106. The variation in diameter between ports 134and the central liquid flow path 106 could be varied relative to oneanother to control concentration of beverage 118. Chambers 132 housingenhancement component 116 are also in fluid communication with thecentral liquid flow path 106 via liquid flow paths 106 at or near outlet126 of capsule 100. Like ports 134, the diameter of the liquid flowpaths 106 may be enlarged or restricted to control the volumetric flowof the combination of liquid 130 and enhancement component 116 fromchambers 132 into the central liquid flow path 106. Seals or plugs (notshown) may be included at inlet 124, ports 134, liquid flow paths 106and/or outlet 126 of capsule 100. The seals or plugs could be configuredto rupture or be dislodged simultaneously or consecutively. For example,in one aspect of the present invention, a seal at inlet 124 could beruptured by passing liquid 130 through liquid flow path 106 whichsubsequently ruptures seals at ports 134 and/or the inlet of the centralliquid flow path 106, following which a seal or plug at outlet 126 couldbe separated from outlet 126 to allow liquid 130 to pass simultaneouslythrough chamber 132 and central liquid flow path 106. In another aspectof the present invention, outlet 126 could include a plug and inlet 124a seal, wherein the seal at the inlet 124 and the plug at the outlet 126are simultaneously opened by passing liquid 130 through liquid flow pathinto inlet 124 of capsule 100 or exposing the seal and plug to thepressure associated with liquid 130. Those skilled in the art canappreciate that the type of material and thickness of the material usedfor the seal may be used to control the point at which the seal opens orruptures depending upon the force/pressure of liquid 130 acting on theseal. Using different types of materials and different thicknesses forthe seals, the seals positioned at different points, such as at inlet124, ports 134 and outlet 126 of capsule 100, may be designed to ruptureor open simultaneously or consecutively depending upon the desiredoperation of capsule 100.

According to an exemplary method of the present invention, liquid 130passes through inlet 124 from liquid flow path 106 into capsule 100.Liquid 130 is diverted through ports 134, and a portion of liquid 130passes through the central liquid flow path 106. The present inventioncontemplates that other liquid flow control architectures or geometriesmay be included in liquid flow path 106 to control how liquid 130 isdiverted, whether through central liquid flow path 106 and/or ports 134.Liquid 130 passing through ports 134 enters chambers 132 and is combinedor affected by enhancement component 116. Liquid 130 and enhancementcomponent 116 dispense together into the central liquid flow path 106through liquid flow paths 106 at or near outlet 126 of capsule 100. Theliquid 130 traveling through central liquid flow path 106 then combineswith the mixture of enhancement component 116 and liquid 130 at mixingpoint 110 to provide the final beverage 118. As previously indicated, bycontrolling the diameter of the orifices of central liquid flow path 106and ports 134, the concentration of beverage 118 may be controlled. Forexample, in the case where capsule 100 is used for preparing more thanone beverage (meaning capsule 100 is not a single serve capsule) thediameter of the orifices of ports 134 could be reduced relative to thediameter of the central liquid flow path 106 to increase the amount ofliquid 130 being dispensed relative to enhancement component 116.Similarly, the diameter of the orifices for ports 134 could be enlargedrelative to the diameter of the orifice for central liquid flow path 106so that all of the enhancement component 116 is dispensed during thebeverage preparation process providing a more concentrated beverage 118at outlet 126 of capsule 100. Thus, in one aspect of the embodimentillustrated in FIG. 8A, liquid 130 passing through ports 134 intochambers 132 may be used to “wash out” liquid enhancement component 116residing in chamber 132 to combine with liquid 130 passing through thecentral liquid flow path 106.

FIGS. 8B-8C illustrate another flow-through configuration 102 of liquidflow control and beverage preparation capsule 100. As previouslydiscussed, capsule 100 shown in FIG. 8B may include an upper and lowerportion separable from one another. The upper portion may includeattachment interface 114 for securing about a liquid dispensing outletof a liquid dispenser or within one or more of the liquid flow controland beverage preparation modules or systems of the present invention.The upper portion of capsule 100 may be permanently or removablysecured. For example, the upper portion could be permanently fixed at adispensing interface of a liquid dispenser so that all the user has todo to prepare a beverage is attach the lower portion having anenhancement component to the upper portion. The lower portion of capsule100 may be secured to the upper portion using means known to thoseskilled in the art, including those discussed and contemplated. Theupper portion may include a liquid flow path 106 passing through inlet124 into chamber 132. Liquid flow path 106 may be split into one or moreliquid flow paths, such as a central liquid flow path 106 and outerliquid flow paths 106. The lower portion of capsule 100 includes acentral liquid flow path 106 and ports 134 through which the central andouter liquid flow paths in the upper portion pass through. The lowerportion of capsule 100 may also include one or more chambers 132 forholding an enhancement component 116, such as illustrated in FIG. 8C.Each compartment 132 is in fluid communication with central liquid flowpath 106 through the smaller liquid flow paths 106 illustrated in thebottom portion of capsule 100. Enhancement component 116 may be housedor sandwiched between permeable membranes 122 within compartments 132.For example, enhancement component 116 could be included in a permeablemembrane that is disposable or a permeable membrane that is washed,sanitized and reused. Enhancement component 116 could also be rechargedafter each use. Chambers 132 can include one or more attachment pointsfor securing membrane 122 within capsule 100.

According to one method of operation, liquid passes through liquid flowpath 106 and is diverted into chambers 132; a portion flows throughcentral liquid flow path 106. The liquid passing through chambers 132combines with or is affected by enhancement component 116 and dispensesout of the smaller liquid flow paths 106 and joins with liquid 130 incentral liquid flow path 106 to provide a beverage at outlet 126.Forming capsule 100 into separate components, such as an upper and lowerportions, has many advantages. For example, depending upon the desiredbeverage, the user may select the lower portion having the desiredenhancement component 116 and attach the lower portion to the upperportion for preparing the beverage. In another aspect of the presentinvention, lower portion could include a liquid concentrate sealedwithin chamber 132 by seals at ports 134 and outlet 126. The seals atports 134 could be opened or ruptured upon attachment of the lowerportion to the upper portion. This could be accomplished by the liquidflow paths 106 in the upper portion mechanically piercing through sealsin ports 134 in the lower portion. Liquid passing through the liquidflow path 106 would open outlet 126 during the beverage preparationprocess. Those skilled in the art can appreciate that any one of theliquid flow control and beverage preparation pods, capsules, pouches,modules, cartridges or systems of the present invention may be enabledwith the concepts and structure illustrated in FIGS. 8B-8C.

FIG. 8D illustrates parallel flow configuration 104 of liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation capsule 100. The parallel flowconfiguration 104 has the same basic structure as the flow-throughconfiguration illustrated in FIG. 8A except that capsule 100 shown inFIG. 8B does not include ports 134 whereby liquid 130 passing throughliquid flow path may enter into chamber 132 housing enhancementcomponent 116. Like the parallel flow diagram illustrated in FIG. 5D,capsule 100 has a central liquid flow path 106 passing through capsule100 from inlet 124 to outlet 126. Chamber(s) 132 housing enhancementcomponent 116 are in fluid communication with central liquid flow path106 at or near outlet 126 via enhancement flow paths 108. In operation,enhancement component 116 is drawn out of chamber(s) 132 by passingliquid 130 through central liquid flow path 106 past the outlets ofenhancement flow paths 108 in fluid communication with chamber(s) 132. Adrawing, siphoning or Venturi effect is created as liquid 130 passes byenhancement flow paths 108. Because liquid 130 passes by the outlets ofthe enhancement flow paths 108 with some velocity, a lower pressure iscreated near the outlets of enhancement flow paths 108 thereby creatinga negative head pressure scenario where enhancement component 116 isdrawn or sucked out of chamber 132 into liquid flow path 106 to combinewith liquid 130 at mixing point 110 to prepare beverage 118. The presentinvention appreciates that by controlling the diameter of the centralliquid flow path 106, the velocity of liquid 130 traveling throughliquid flow path 106 may be controlled which in turn controls thenegative head pressure or vacuum created at the outlet of enhancementflow paths 108 for drawing enhancement component 116 into combinationwith liquid in central liquid flow path 106. Like other embodiment ofthe present invention previously discussed and illustrated, one or moreseals or plugs may be included at inlet 124 and outlet 126 of capsule100. The seals or plugs may be configured to open simultaneously orconsecutively. For example, outlet 126 of capsule 100 could be secludedwith plug 128 illustrated in FIG. 9B. As liquid 130 passes throughliquid flow path 106 the pressure of the liquid dislodges the plug 128from outlet 126 thereby starting the beverage preparation process. Likeall the embodiments of the liquid flow control and beverage preparationcapsules, pods, pouches or cartridges of the present invention, capsule100 illustrated in FIG. 8B may be reusable (rechargeable) or a singleserving disposable type capsule. For example, capsule 100 could includeupper and lower portions so that the lower portion may be recharged withan enhancement component and reassembled to the upper portion to providea reusable type capsule. Similar to those considerations previouslydiscussed, the concentration of beverage 118 dispensed from capsule 100shown in FIG. 8D may be controlled by altering the diameter of thecentral liquid flow path 106 relative to the diameter of enhancementflow paths 108 in communication with enhancement component 116 inchamber(s) 132. For example, in the case where capsule 100 is a multipleuse embodiment, the diameter for the central liquid flow path 106 may besignificantly larger than the diameter of the enhancement flow paths 108in the case where a weaker concentrated beverage 118 is desired. In thisinstance, beverage 118 would consist mainly of liquid 130 as very littleenhancement component 116 would be drawn from chambers 132.Alternatively, in the case where a stronger concentrated beverage 118 isdesired, the diameter of the enhancement flow paths 108 could beenlarged relative to the diameter of the central liquid flow path 106such that a greater volume of enhancement component 116 is metered intoliquid flow path 106 which has a reduced volumetric flow therebyproviding a more concentrated beverage 118 at outlet 126. Similar toearlier written description and embodiments of the present invention,capsule 100 could be designed such that the mixing point 110 ofenhancement component 116 and liquid 130 could be at the outlet 126 ofcapsule in midair to assist in preventing back contamination issues aspreviously discussed.

Those skilled in the art can appreciate that capsule 100 illustrated inFIGS. 8A-8D may be reconfigured between flow-through configuration 102and parallel flow configuration 104 depending upon the desired type ofbeverage being prepared. In the case where capsule 100 includes an upperand lower portion, a lower portion having flow-through configurationcould be used for beverages requiring a flow-through configuration and alower portion having a parallel flow configuration could be used forbeverage preparation process requiring a parallel flow configuration.For example, the lower portion could include a flow-throughconfiguration used for brewing such beverages as coffee or tea and thenbe subsequently swapped out for a different bottom portion having aparallel flow configuration used for preparing carbonated syrupbeverages.

FIGS. 9A-11B illustrate flow-through and parallel flow configurations ofanother embodiment of liquid flow control and beverage preparationcapsule 100. One type of flow-through configuration 102 of capsule 100is illustrated in FIGS. 9A-9B. Capsule 100 shown in FIG. 9A has asimilar operation to the flow-through diagram illustrated in FIG. 5B.Capsule 100 may be designed as a single integral piece or as acombination of separate components. For example, capsule 100 may includea membrane 122 that is inserted within capsule 100 and a plug or seal128 at the outlet 126 of capsule 100. The flow-through membrane 122 maybe swapped out or exchanged for a parallel flow membrane 122 asillustrated in FIGS. 10A-11B. Membrane 122 may be a rigid, semi-rigidfeature or pliable feature depending upon the desired beverage beingprepared. As shown, membrane 122 separates liquid flow path 106 fromchamber 132. Chamber 132 is adapted to house an enhancement component116 as illustrated in FIG. 9B. Like those previously discussed, capsule100 includes attachment mechanism 114 for securing about a liquiddispensing outlet or interface of a liquid dispensing apparatus.Additionally, capsule 100 could be used in combination with any one ofthe liquid flow control and beverage preparation modules or systems ofthe present invention (see FIGS. 14A-17D). In the case where membrane122 is a separate component from capsule 100, membrane 122 may beremoved, washed and sanitized after each use. Likewise, capsule 100 andplug 128 could be separated from membrane 122, washed and sanitized forreuse. Membrane 122 could be removably affixed to capsule 100 usingmeans well known to those skilled in the art, including thosecontemplated and described herein. Enhancement component 116 shown inFIG. 9B could be recharged after each use of capsule 100 bydisassembling capsule 100 and reassembling capsule 100 filled with a newenhancement component 116. Membrane 122 may also include one or moreports 134 passing through the wall of membrane 122 into chamber 132. Thediameter of port 134 passing through the wall of membrane 122 could becontrolled to control the volumetric flow of liquid through port 134into chamber 132. For example, depending upon the strength of thebeverage desired, membrane 122 could be swapped out for another style ofmembrane having a different sized diameter for port 134. In operation,capsule 100 is sealed at a liquid dispensing outlet whereby liquid 130is sealably communicated into liquid flow path 106 from the liquiddispenser. Depending upon the diameter and shape of port 134, thevolumetric flow of liquid 130 passing through port 134 into chamber 132may be controlled. Liquid 130 passing through port 134 into chamber 132combines with enhancement component 116. Liquid 130 is affected orcombined with enhancement component and dispensed through liquid flowpath 106 near outlet 126. Liquid 130 passing through the central liquidflow path combines with liquid 130 and enhancement component 116 passingfrom chamber 132 into the central liquid flow path 106 at mixing point110 to provide beverage 118. Thus, liquid 130 passing into chambers 132“washes out” enhancement component 116 from chambers 132 to combine withliquid 130 passing through the central liquid flow path 106. In the casewhere the capsule is a multiple use capsule, the diameter of port 134could be controlled to control the volumetric flow of liquid 130 throughport 134 into chamber 132. For example, if a heavily concentratedbeverage 118 is desired, the diameter of port 134 could be enlarged toallow for a higher volumetric flow of liquid 130 into chamber 132.Conversely if a less concentrated beverage 118 is desired, diameter ofport 134 could be decreased so that only a small portion of liquid 130passes through port 134 into chamber 132 leaving the majority of liquid130 (unaffected by an enhancement component) passing through the centralliquid flow path 106. The present invention appreciates that bycontrolling the diameter of port 134, capsule 100 illustrated in FIG. 9Bcould be configured from a flow-through configuration to a parallel flowconfiguration. For example, capsule 100 could be reconfigured to aparallel flow configuration such as those illustrated in FIGS. 10A-11Bby reducing the diameter of port 134 to the point where liquid 130 is nolonger capable of passing through port 134 into chambers 132. Thus, ifonly air is allowed to pass through port 134 then enhancement component116 would pass into liquid flow path without first being combined withliquid 130. Both the inlet 124 and outlet 126 of capsule 100 couldinclude a seal or plug such as plug 128 illustrated in FIG. 9B. The sealor plug at the inlet and outlets of capsule 100 could be rupturedsimultaneously or consecutively depending upon the desired beveragepreparation process.

According to one exemplary method of operation, capsule 100 is sealed ator about the liquid dispensing outlet or interface of a liquiddispenser. Liquid flow passing into liquid flow path causes the seal atinlet 124 of capsule 100 to open so that liquid 130 passes throughliquid flow path 106 into chamber 132. The pressure of liquid 130 actingon plug 128 dislodges plug 128 from outlet 126 allowing liquid 130 andenhancement component 116 to dispense from capsule 100 to a receivingpoint at the liquid dispenser. As previously indicated, flow-throughconfiguration 102 of capsule 100 illustrated in FIGS. 9A-9B may bereconfigured to a parallel flow configuration 104 illustrated in FIGS.10A-11B. The reconfiguration of capsule 100 could be accomplished bysimply changing out membrane 122 to provide a different flow-throughconfiguration depending upon the desired beverage and the requiredbeverage preparation process. Capsule 100 illustrated in FIGS. 9A-9B maybe better suited for use with one type of enhancement component whereascapsule 100 illustrated in FIGS. 10A-11B may be better suited foranother type of enhancement component. Generally, flow-throughconfigurations are better suited for brewable type beverages such as teaor coffee, whereas parallel flow configurations may be better suited forsyrup or carbonated type beverages. As indicated, FIGS. 10A-11Billustrate different embodiments of the parallel flow configuration 104of liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsule 100. The sameconsiderations discussed previously with regard to FIGS. 9A-9B areapplicable here. Capsule 100 may be designed as a two or more piececomponent having a membrane 122 for separating chamber 132 from liquidflow path 106, and a single or two-piece plug 128 for sealing outlet 126of capsule 100. Membrane 122 may be snap fit to capsule 100 and plug 128snap fit to outlet 126 in the case where the capsule 100 is reusable orassembled by the user with the desired enhancement component being addedinto compartment 132. Capsule 100 includes attachment interface 114 forsecuring about a liquid dispensing outlet or interface of a liquiddispenser or within one of the liquid flow control and beveragepreparation modules or systems of the present invention. As with all ofthe embodiments of the present invention, the material for capsule 100may be a type that is safe for use in such beverage preparationprocesses and resists contamination such as bacterial, mold or mildewgrowth.

According to an exemplary method of operation, as is illustrated in FIG.10B, capsule 100 receives liquid 130 through inlet 124 into liquid flowpath 106. A seal may be provided at inlet 124 which is ruptured by thepassing of liquid 130 through liquid flow path 106. The seal may bemanually removed, mechanically ruptured or opened by pressure of liquid130. The velocity of liquid passing through liquid flow path 106 may becontrolled by controlling the diameter of liquid flow path 106. Forexample, if a high velocity liquid flow rate is desired, the diameter ofliquid flow path 106 may be reduced (assuming liquid 130 is under aconstant pressure). Conversely, if a lower velocity liquid flow isdesired, the diameter of liquid flow path may be increased. This couldbe accomplished by swapping out membrane 122 for membranes havingvarying sized liquid flow path diameters. Parallel flow configuration102 illustrated in FIG. 10B operates similar to parallel flowconfiguration diagramed in FIG. 5D and illustrated in FIG. 8A. Liquid130 passing through liquid flow path is separated from chamber 132 bymembrane 122. Chamber 132 is communication with liquid flow path andoutlet 126 of capsule 100 via enhancement flow paths 108. Liquid 130passing by the outlet of enhancement flow paths 108 draws, sucks orsiphons enhancement component 116 from chambers 132. Enhancementcomponent 116 travels through enhancement flow paths 108 and combineswith liquid 130 in liquid flow path 106 at mixing point 110 to providebeverage 118. Thus, by Venturi effect or the creation of a negative headpressure at the outlet of enhancement flow paths 108, enhancementcomponent 116 is siphoned or drawn out of chamber 132 into liquid flowpath 106 to combine with liquid 130. As previously indicated, plug 128could be a two-piece or single piece plug. For example, the upperportion of plug 128 could be separate from the lower portion of plug128, whereby the upper portion seals the central liquid flow path 106and the lower portion of plug 128 seals the outlet 126 of capsule 100.Thus, in the case were plug 128 is two-piece plug, the upper portion maybe dislodged first followed by the lower portion. Alternatively, theupper and lower portions of plug 128 may be dislodged simultaneously toallow liquid 130 to pass through outlet 126 and enhancement component116 to pass through enhancement flow paths 108 to outlet 126 to combinewith liquid 130.

FIGS. 11A-11B illustrate another embodiment of liquid flow control andbeverage preparation capsule 100 in a parallel flow configuration 104.The same considerations discussed with regard to FIGS. 10A-10B areapplicable to FIGS. 11A-11B, which further illustrate another embodimentof plug 128. In the case shown in FIG. 11B, plug 128 is attached tocapsule 100 by hinge 136. Thus, as liquid 130 is passed through liquidflow path 106, pressure of liquid 130 acting on plug 128 dislodges plug128 from the outlet 126 of liquid flow path 106 and enhancement flowpaths 108 to allow dispensing. Plug 128 includes an upper portion formating with the outlet of the central liquid flow path 106 and a lowerportion having larger diameter than the upper portion for mating withthe outlet 126 of capsule 100. Thus, upon dislodging of plug 128, bothliquid flow path 106 and enhancement flow paths 108 are opened. FIGS.11A-11B also illustrate a different embodiment of membrane 122. Aspreviously discussed, by altering the diameter of enhancement flow paths108, the volumetric flow of enhancement component 116 traveling therethrough may also be controlled. Altering the diameter of enhancementflow paths 108, in addition to controlling the velocity of liquid 130traveling through liquid flow path 106, controls the rate at whichenhancement component 116 is dispensed from chamber 132 throughenhancement flow paths 108. The design of membrane 122, as illustratedin FIGS. 11A-11B, allows a higher volumetric flow of liquid 130 to passthrough liquid flow paths 106 at a reduced velocity assuming liquid 130is under the same pressure as it would be in FIGS. 10A-10B. By selectinga different membrane 122, the diameter of enhancement flow path 108 canbe altered. For example, FIGS. 10A-10B illustrate a larger diameter forenhancement flow paths 108 as a result of the size and shape of membrane122; FIGS. 11A-11B illustrate smaller diameter enhancement flow paths108 as a result of membrane 122 used in the embodiment shown in FIGS.11A-11B. Thus, the present invention provides a user with theflexibility of selecting the type of membrane 122 based on such thingsas the type of beverage being prepared, the desired concentration of thebeverage and other considerations relevant to a beverage preparationprocess by selecting the components that go within capsule 100, such asthe design of membrane 122.

FIGS. 12A-12C illustrate another liquid flow control and beveragepreparation capsule 100 according to an exemplary aspect of the presentinvention. Like those capsules illustrated and previously discussed,capsule 100 shown in FIG. 12A includes attachment interface 114 wherebycapsule may be secured about a liquid dispensing outlet on interface ofa liquid dispenser, such as those illustrated in the present invention,those discussed and those contemplated. Capsule 100 may also be usedwith any one of the liquid flow control and beverage preparation modulesor systems of the present invention. Capsule 100 may be a single pieceor multi-piece construct. Like capsules previously illustrated anddiscussed, capsule 100 shown in FIG. 12A may include an upper portion,such as a lid portion that is removably attachable to the body ofcapsule 100. Capsule 100 also includes an inlet 124 for liquid flow path106. Inlet 124 is openable and closeable by gate 140. Gate 140 may beattached to the upper portion of capsule 100 by hinge 136. Hinge 136 maybe a mechanical or living hinge. A chamber or chambers 132 may be formedwithin the body of capsule 100 for housing enhancement component 116.Another gate 140 is provided in the lower portion of capsule 100 andincludes a hinge, whether mechanical or living, to allow gate 140 to beopened and closed. The bottom most portion of capsule 100 includes ashroud 148 to eliminate or reduce splashing or splatter when gates 140are opened or ruptured and during liquid dispension. The outlet 126 ofcapsule 100 may also include a plug 128. Plug 128 is secured to capsule100 using connection means known to those skilled in the art, includingthose previously described and discussed in the present invention.

FIG. 12B illustrates parallel flow configuration 104 of liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation capsule 100. By swapping out orreconfiguring one or more of the components illustrated in FIG. 12A,capsule 100 may be configured to a parallel flow configuration 104 asillustrated in FIG. 12B or a flow-through configuration 102 asillustrated in FIG. 12C. The parallel flow configuration 104 asillustrate in FIG. 12B includes a liquid flow path 106 passing externalto capsule 100. The external liquid flow path 106 may be an integral ora separate component to capsule 100. A fluid flow manifold may beprovided in addition to capsule 100 to control the flow of liquid 130into capsule 100 or the external flow path 106. A valve or flow dividersuch as illustrated in FIGS. 14A-14D and 16A-16E may be included in themanifold to divert flow of liquid 130 through capsule 100 and/or throughthe external liquid flow path 106. The term manifold is used to describethe liquid flow control configurations used in addition to capsule 100illustrated in FIG. 12B. The manifold may be provided by one of theliquid flow control and beverage preparation modules or systems of thepresent invention. Furthermore, the necessary liquid flow controlmanifold may be included in the liquid dispensing apparatus to whichcapsule 100 is used in combination with. In the embodiment illustratedin FIG. 12B, capsule 100 includes a compartment 132 housing enhancementcomponent 116. The compartment 132 is separated from enhancementcomponent 116 by membrane 122. The membrane 122 may be a deformablemembrane whereby force or pressure 120 acting on membrane 122 causesdeformation of membrane 122 thereby causing enhancement component 116 torupture or open gate 140 and dispense through shroud 148 and outlet 126of capsule 100. As previously discussed, the type of material andthickness of the material used for membrane 122 may be controlled sothat the amount of deformation of membrane 122 is also controlledthereby determining the amount of enhancement component 116 dispensedfrom capsule 100 given the magnitude of the pressure/force 120 acting onmembrane 122. Thus, in operation, as liquid 130 passes through liquidflow path 106, pressure of liquid 130 causes gate 140 to open or ruptureand rotate downwardly about hinge 136 whereby liquid 130 enterscompartment 132. Liquid 130 fills compartment 132 and the weight ofliquid 130 and/or the pressure/force 120 acting on membrane 122 causesmembrane 122 to deform. The deformation of membrane 122 causesenhancement component 116 to apply a pressure force 120 on the lowergate 140 thereby opening and rupturing the gate 140, causing the gate torotate downwardly about hinge 136 at the same time which plug 128 isdislodged or released from outlet 126 of capsule 100. The presentinvention contemplates that plug 128 may be a thermoweld or otherbarrier or seal that dislodges, opens or ruptures when pressure ofenhancement component 116 is applied to enhancement component todispense out outlet 126 via enhancement flow path 108. Although capsule100 is shown with a plug 128, the present invention contemplates capsuleoperation and structure without a plug 128, given capsule 100 may besealed at or near outlet 126 by gate 140. As gate 140 opens or ruptures,enhancement component 116 may be dispensed at a higher pressure in anerratic manner. Thus, shroud 148 helps eliminate or reduce the splashingor splattering of enhancement component when dispensed. Liquid 130passing through external liquid flow path 106 combines with enhancementcomponent dispensed from capsule 100 at mixing point 110 to providebeverage 118. External liquid flow path 106 may include one or moreseals at the inlet and outlet of the liquid flow path to preserve thehygienical integrity of the flow path. Those skilled in the art canappreciate that external liquid flow path 106 may not be required insome instances of use of capsule 100. For example, liquid flow controland beverage preparation module illustrated in FIG. 14A includes a flowpath that would function as an external liquid flow path in the casewhere capsule 100 shown in FIG. 12B is used to prepare a beverage. Aspreviously discussed in embodiments of the present invention, capsule100 shown in FIG. 12B may include an air gap between membrane 122 andinlet 124 within compartment 132 to assist in preserving the hygienicalintegrity of the liquid dispensing system to which capsule 100 isattached or used in combination with.

FIG. 12C illustrates a flow-through configuration 102 of liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation capsule 100. In FIG. 12C, enhancementcomponent 116 is contained between permeable membranes 122. Permeablemembranes may be disposable or reusable. Attachment means may beincluded within capsule 100 for securing a reusable membrane 122. In thecase of a single use membrane 122, enhancement component 116 may bereplaced with a new membrane 122 housing a new enhancement component 116depending upon the desired beverage being prepared. Thus, for example,membrane 122 could be a disposable membrane housing a single servingportion of a brewable enhancement component 116, such as tea or coffee.Alternatively, membrane 122 may be removed, washed and sanitized andreused upon recharging with a new enhancement component 116. The flow ofliquid 130 through capsule 100 in external flow path 106 is in some wayssimilar to the description provided for FIG. 12B, however, in FIG. 12C,liquid 130 passing through liquid flow path into chamber 132 also passesthrough membrane 122 and percolates through enhancement component 116.Liquid 130 is combined with or affected by enhancement component 116 andpasses through the lower membrane 122 past gate 140 and through outlet126 of capsule 100. Liquid 130 passing through external liquid flow path106 combines with the enhancement component 116 and liquid 130 beingdispensed from capsule 100 at mixing point 110 to provide a finalbeverage 118. As with other flow-through configurations presented anddiscussed herein, the concentration of beverage 118 may be controlled bycontrolling or varying the volumetric flow of liquid 130 passing throughcapsule 100 versus the volumetric flow of liquid 130 passing throughexternal liquid flow path 106. For example, in the case where a strongconcentrated beverage 118 is desired, the majority of liquid flow 130may be passed through capsule 100, whereas if a weaker concentratedbeverage 118 is desired a majority of liquid flow 130 may be passedthrough the external liquid flow path 106. Thus by controlling thevolumetric flow of liquid 130 through capsule 100 and external flow path106, the concentration of beverage 118 may be controlled. In the casewhere a beverage 118 is desired that requires a different flowconfiguration, capsule 100 may be reconfigured from the flow-throughconfiguration 102 to a parallel flow configuration 104 such asillustrated in FIG. 12B. This can be accomplished by swapping out orreconfiguring membrane 122 within capsule 100, such as where a permeablemembrane is swapped out for a non-permeable type membrane that isflexible and allows deformation for dispensing enhancement component116. Like the parallel flow configuration 104 illustrated in FIG. 12B,the flow-through configuration illustrated in FIG. 12C may also includean air gap setup within chamber 132 between the upper membrane 122 andinlet 124 to assist in preventing back contamination of the liquiddispensing system to which capsule 100 is attached or the liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation module or system to which capsule 100is used in combination with. Liquid 130 passing through capsule 100 andliquid flow path 106 external to capsule 100 combine with each other atmixing point 110 in midair. The combination of two flow streams inmidair helps minimize the potential of back contamination of the liquiddispensing system to which capsule 100 is attached or the liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation module or system in which capsule 100is used in combination with. Seals may also be provided on the inlet andoutlet of the liquid flow path external to capsule 100 to prevent theliquid flow path from becoming contaminated. The liquid flow path may beremoved and rinsed as well as disinfected in the case where the capsule100 is reusable. These present aspects contemplate that capsule 100 andliquid flow path 106 external to capsule 100 may be opened by beingpierced with some mechanical geometry or by using the pressure of liquid130 passing through liquid flow path 106 in capsule 100 and external tocapsule 100.

Liquid Flow Control and Beverage Preparation Pouches

FIGS. 13A-13C illustrate liquid flow control and beverage preparationpouches 300 according to an exemplary aspect of the present invention.Flow-through configurations 302 of liquid flow control and beveragepreparation pouch 300 are illustrated in FIGS. 13A-13B and parallelconfiguration 304 is illustrated in FIG. 13C. Pouch 300 illustrated inFIGS. 13A-13C include an inlet 324. Inlet 324 may include an attachmentinterface 314 for attaching about the liquid dispensing outlet ordispensing interface of the liquid dispensing apparatus or for beingsecured within one of the liquid flow control and beverage preparationmodules and/or systems of the present invention. Attachment mechanism314 may be configured to secure directly to a liquid dispensing outletor dispensing interface of the liquid dispenser. Attachment interface314 could include any one of those discussed in the present application,those illustrated, and those contemplated or within the skill of thoseknowing the art. The body of pouch 300 could be rigid or supple, asimplied by the use of the term “pouch.” As illustrated in FIG. 13A,pouch 300 includes a compartment 332 for housing enhancement component316. Compartment 332 is separated from inlet 324 and outlet 326 bymembranes 322. Membranes 322 are preferably configured to open uponapplication of pressure or force 320. Those skilled in the art canappreciate that membranes 322 could be opened mechanically as well as byusing pressure/force 320 resulting from passing liquid 330 throughliquid flow path 306. The upper and lower membranes 322 could also be athermoweld. Upper and lower membranes 322 could be configured with atype of material and thickness to control the point at which membranes322 open or rupture depending upon the pressure or force exerted onmembrane 322. Membranes 322 could be configured to open or rupturesimultaneously or consecutively depending upon the desired dispensingprotocol. Those skilled in the art can appreciate that in addition tothose presented, pouch 300 may include one or more geometries,aqueducts, configurations or channels for directing, controlling andguiding liquid 330 through pouch 300 from inlet 324 to outlet 326 to beaffected by or combined with enhancement component 316 to provide abeverage.

According to an exemplary method of operation, as illustrated by theflow-through configuration 302 shown in FIG. 13A, liquid 330 from aliquid dispensing apparatus, such as those illustrated in FIGS. 1A-4B,passes through inlet 324 of pouch 300 to start the beverage preparationprocess. Pressure or force 320 resulting from the weight orforce/pressure associated with liquid 330 causes membrane 322 to open orrupture whereby liquid 330 passes into compartment 332 to combine withor be affected by enhancement component 316. Upper membrane 322 is notrequired to be opened or ruptured by pressure or force 322 of liquid330. Membrane 322 could be opened mechanically by piercing or manuallyremoved. For example, connection of pouch 300 at the liquid dispensingoutlet/interface or within a liquid flow control and beveragepreparation module or system of the present invention may mechanicallypierce the upper membrane 322. Lower membrane 322 may be configured suchthat cavity 332 fills almost entirely with liquid 330 at which pointlower membrane 322 opens or ruptures to prevent enhancement componentand liquid from back contaminating the liquid dispensing system to whichpouch 300 is being used in combination with. Alternatively, lowermembrane 322 could be designed to rupture prematurely upon very littleforce or pressure 320 resulting from liquid 330 acting on membrane 322.Those skilled in the art can appreciate that membrane 322 could be aseal, gate, thermoweld, or any other openable or rupturable membrane orconstruct contemplated by those skilled in the art and illustrated inthe various aspects of the present invention. By controlling the pointat which lower membrane 322 opens or ruptures, the time with whichliquid 330 fills, combines or is affected by enhancement component 316may be increased or decreased. In the case where it is desired thatliquid 330 remain or percolate with enhancement component 316 for alonger period of time, lower membrane 322 may be reinforced to absorb ahigher pressure/force 320 thereby delaying the time before lowermembrane 322 opens or ruptures allowing enhancement component 316 todispense from pouch 300. Outlet 326 of pouch 300 may be configured toregulate the volumetric flow of enhancement component 316 from pouch300. For example, outlet 326 may have a reduced diameter relative to thediameter of inlet 324 such that liquid 330 enters pouch 300 at a greaterrate than enhancement component and liquid dispenses through outlet 326of pouch 300 to thereby cause compartment 322 to fill up allowingenhancement component 316 to mix with liquid 330 for a greater amount oftime. Further, by restricting the diameter of outlet 326 of pouch 300,liquid 330 and enhancement component 316 is dispensed from pouch at ahigher pressure further aiding in the mixing and combining ofenhancement component 316 with liquid 330. Like other aspects of thepresent invention, pouch 300 may include an air buffer established incompartment 332 between inlet 324 and enhancement component 316 toassist in preventing back contamination of the liquid dispensing systemor the liquid flow control and beverage preparation module or system ofthe present invention which pouch 300 is used in combination with. Inaddition to the upper and lower membranes 322 used to seal enhancementcomponent 316 within pouch 300, seals or plugs may be provided at theinlet 324 and outlet 326 of pouch 300 to help protect and preserve thehygienical integrity of internal components of pouch 300. Seals or plugsat the inlet 324 and/or outlet 326 of pouch 300 may be ruptured oropened by passing liquid 330 through liquid flow path 306 of pouch 300as described in the embodiments illustrated in the present invention.

FIG. 13B illustrates another flow-through configuration 302 of liquidflow control and beverage preparation pouch 300 according to anexemplary aspect of the present invention. Like pouch 300 illustrated inFIG. 13A, pouch 300 shown in FIG. 13B includes attachment interface 314for securing about or to a liquid dispensing outlet or interface of aliquid dispenser. Furthermore, attachment interface 314 may be used tosecure pouch 300 within one or more of the liquid flow control andbeverage preparation modules or systems shown and described in thepresent invention. For example, pouch 300 may include attachmentinterface 314 adapted for securing within liquid flow control andbeverage preparation module 400 illustrated in FIG. 8A that provides ahousing connection means for securing about or to liquid dispensingoutlet or interface of a liquid dispensing apparatus. Pouch 300 includesan inlet 324 through which liquid 330 passes through from liquid flowpath 306. Inlet 324 may include a seal in addition to upper membrane322. The seal (not shown) may be mechanically or manually ruptured oropened. The seal may also be opened using force or pressure 320 as aresult of passing liquid 330 through liquid flow path 306. Pouch 300 mayalso include one or more compartments 332. Compartments 332 are in fluidcommunication with liquid flow path 306 via ports 334. Compartments 332are designed to house enhancement component 316. Liquid flow path 306and ports 334 may include a membrane 322 providing liquid flow control,such as a weak thermoweld. Outlet 326 at or near the outlet 326 of pouch300 may include a lower membrane 322. Outlet 326 may also include a seallike inlet 324 that is opened or ruptured upon opening or rupturinglower membrane 322 near outlet 326. Enhancement component 316 is heldwithin cavity 332 using membrane 322.

According to an exemplary method of operation, liquid 330 passes throughliquid flow path 306 into inlet 324 of pouch 300 to start the beveragepreparation process. In the case where a seal is provided at inlet 324,the seal is ruptured or opened either mechanically or as a result ofpressure/force 320 of liquid 320. As discussed with regard to theembodiment illustrated in FIG. 13A, upper membrane 322 may also bepierced mechanically upon insertion of pouch within the host dispensingsystem, such as liquid flow control and beverage preparation module 400(shown in FIGS. 14A-14C) or liquid flow control and beverage preparationpouch 500 (shown in FIGS. 16A-16D). The pressure/force 320 of liquid 320opens the weak thermowelding occupying ports 334 at the top of pouch300. Liquid 330 passes into compartments 332 to combine with or beaffected by enhancement component 316. A portion of liquid 330 continuesto pass through liquid flow path 306 as the force/pressure 320 of liquid330 continues to open up the thermowelding membrane 322 in liquid flowpath 306. Depending upon the design of the thermowelding membrane 322 inliquid flow path 306, the volumetric flow of liquid 330 through liquidflow path 306 and compartments 332 may be controlled to thereby controlthe concentration of the beverage being dispensed from pouch 300. Liquid330 continues to fill compartments 332 until at which point thepressure/force 320 acting on the thermowelding membrane gives way andallows liquid to rupture or open membrane 322 at or near outlet 326 ofpouch 300. Controlling the strength of thermowelding membrane 322 inliquid flow path 306 also allows the dispensing protocol of pouch 300 tobe defined. For example, in the case where a stronger thermoweldingmembrane 322 is used in liquid flow path 306, the majority of liquid 330passes through chamber 332 and out outlet 326. Alternatively, in thecase where a weaker thermowelding membrane 322 is used in liquid flowpath 306, a proportion of liquid 330 flowing through pouch 300 flowsdirectly through liquid flow path 306 and combines with enhancementcomponent 316 at or near the lower ports 334. Furthermore, a strongerthermowelding membrane 322 could be used in ports 334 in the upperportion of pouch 300 to direct the majority of liquid 330 through liquidflow path 306 which would combine with enhancement component 316 passingthrough ports 334 in the lower portion of pouch 300 to provide a lessconcentrated beverage (in the case where pouch 300 is a multiple usepouch).

FIG. 13C illustrates a parallel flow configuration 304 of liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation pouch 300. Pouch 300 includesattachment interface 314 for connecting at a liquid dispensing outlet orinterface of a liquid dispensing apparatus as previously described.Inlet 324 of pouch 300 may include a seal also as previously described.Inlet 324 may include membrane 322, such as a rupturable, openablemembrane. The membrane may be a thermoweld or other membrane type aspreviously described and contemplated in the present invention. Liquidflow path 306 in pouch 300 may include multiple internal membranes 322.The membranes may be thermowelding for controlling the flow of liquidthrough liquid flow path 306. A membrane 322 is also included in thelower portion of pouch 300 at or near outlet 326. Compartments 332 areadapted for receipt of enhancement component 316. Membranes 322 inliquid flow path 306 and at outlet 326 of pouch 300 retain enhancementcomponent 316 within chamber 332. Chamber 332 is in fluid communicationwith liquid flow path 306 via enhancement flow path 308 provided byports 334.

According to an exemplary method of operation, liquid 330 passes throughinlet 324, ruptures a seal at the inlet 324 (if provided) and rupturesmembrane 322 to start the beverage preparation process. Pressure orforce 320 of liquid 330 may be used to open or rupture a seal and/ormembrane 322 at or near inlet 324. Liquid 330 continues through liquidflow path 306 and ruptures membrane 322 within liquid flow path andmembrane 322 at or near outlet 326. As liquid 330 travels pastenhancement flow path 308 in fluid communication with enhancementcomponent 316 in chamber 332, enhancement component 316 is drawn orsiphoned out of chamber 332 by Venturi effect or by a negative headpressure (vacuum) to cause enhancement component 316 to combine withliquid 330 passing through liquid flow path 306, which is then dispensedas a beverage. The present invention contemplates that the diameter ofenhancement flow path 308 and liquid flow path 306 may be decreased orincreased to control the velocity at which liquid 330 passes throughliquid flow path 306 and enhancement component 316 is drawn fromcompartment 332 into liquid flow path 306. Further, by decreasing thediameter of liquid flow path 306 the velocity of liquid 330 travellingthrough liquid flow path 306 may be increased thereby increasing thevacuum or the drawing effect of enhancement component 316 from chamber332 through enhancement flow path 308. The increased velocity of liquid330 passing through liquid flow path 306 may also add to the subsequentcontinued mixing of liquid 330 with enhancement component 316 at areceiving point having the receptacle for collecting the beverage.Membranes 322 provided in pouch 300 may be designed to rupture or failsimultaneously or consecutively. For example, as liquid 330 is passedthrough liquid flow path 306 into inlet 324, pressure/force 320 actingon membrane 322 in liquid flow path may cause lower membranes 322 torupture or open simultaneously to control the dispensing protocol ofpouch 300.

Liquid Flow Control and Beverage Preparation Modules

FIGS. 14A-14D illustrate a liquid flow control and beverage preparationmodule 400 according to an exemplary aspect of the present invention.Liquid flow control and beverage preparation module, as illustrated inFIG. 14A, is adaptable for removable receipt at a liquid dispensingoutlet or interface of a liquid dispensing apparatus, such as the indoorice/water dispenser of a refrigerated appliance (illustrated in FIG.14A). Liquid flow control and beverage preparation module 400 shown inFIG. 14B may be configured to a flow-through configuration 402 asillustrated in FIG. 14C or a parallel flow configuration 404 asillustrated in FIG. 14D. Liquid flow control and beverage preparationmodule 400 illustrated in FIG. 14B may also be configured betweenflow-through and parallel flow configurations without swapping out orchanging any of the components. Liquid flow control and beveragepreparation module 400 includes a housing 436 for holding the liquidflow control and beverage preparation components. Housing 436 is adaptedto be removably secured to attachment interface 24 of a liquiddispensing apparatus 10. Housing 436 may include one or more attachmentpoints, such as attachment interface 414 for securing housing 436 toliquid dispensing apparatus 10. Attachment interface 414 may alsoprovide the necessary sealing interfaces needed to seal the interfacebetween the liquid dispenser and module 400. The different types ofconnection and sealing interfaces are well-known to those skilled in theart. Attachment interfaces 414 may include any of the attachmentinterfaces previously discussed and contemplated in the presentinvention. For example, the sealing interface may include a grommet,O-ring, sealing membrane, gasket, or any like sealing component. Thesecomponents are all within the realm of those skilled in the art. Valve412 is configured to be in fluid communication with outlet 18 of liquidflow path 12 when housing 436 is attached to liquid dispensing apparatus10. Liquid 30 flowing through liquid flow path 12 in liquid dispensingapparatus 10 is communicated through outlet 18 into valve 412. Valve 412may be operated manually or receive an instruction from an actuator upondirection from a user to thereby control the flow of liquid throughliquid flow path 406. Valve 412 may also be simply an on/off switch toallow or not allow liquid 30 to pass into housing 436. In the case wherea valve is simply an on/off switch for allowing passage of liquid intohousing 436, a flow divider 440 may also be provided for splitting theflow of liquid through port 434 or liquid flow path 406 passing throughhousing 436. Flow divider 440 may include the necessary structure toallow the flow of liquid to be diverted through the required flowconfiguration needed for the beverage being prepared. For example, flowdivider may be manually instructed or actuated by an automatic actuatorreceiving input from the user to control or divert the majority of theflow through port 434 into compartment 432 or through liquid flow path406 passing external to housing 436. In either case, whether alone orcombination with each other, valve 412 and flow divider 440 may be usedto control or divert liquid flow through any one of the liquid flowpaths 406 or ports 434 within housing 432 in accordance with therequirements of the specific beverage preparation process or the desiredconcentration of the beverage. Compartment 432 may also include one ormore connection points for securing the liquid flow control and beveragepreparation capsules, pods, cartridges, or pouches illustrated anddiscussed in the present invention. For example, liquid flow control andbeverage preparation pod illustrated in FIG. 6C may be inserted intocompartment 432. And, depending upon the desired concentration of thebeverage, flow divider 440 or valve 412 may be regulated to control ordivert the required amount of liquid into compartment to pass throughliquid flow path 206 of liquid flow control and beverage preparation pod200 to dispense a beverage at outlet 426 of housing 436. If, in the caseof using pod 200 illustrated in FIG. 6C, a user desires a lessconcentrated beverage, flow divider 440 or valve 412 may be used todivert a portion of the flow through liquid flow path 406 passingexternal to housing 436 to dilute the beverage exiting outlet 426 ofhousing 436. Thus, the beverage exiting outlet 426 combines with liquidpassing through liquid flow path 406 in midair or at the receivingpoint, such as in a receptacle to provide a less concentrated beverage.The present invention contemplates that any of the liquid flow controland beverage preparation capsules, pouches, pods or cartridges may beused in combination with liquid flow control and beverage preparationmodule 400. As discussed with regard to liquid flow control and beveragepreparation capsule illustrated in FIG. 12B, a liquid flow path passingexternal to capsule 100 is used. And, in the case where capsule 100shown in FIG. 12B is used in combination with module 400, liquid flowpath 406 passing through housing 436 acts as the external liquid flowpath needed for the capsule disclosed in FIG. 12B. Those skilled in theart can appreciate that the use of liquid flow divider 440 and valve 412may be used to divert a portion of liquid passing through module 400 tocontrol the strength of the beverage being prepared, such is the casewhere only a portion of the liquid passing through module 400 is passedthrough the enhancement component removably received within compartment432 of module 400. It is not required that flow divider or valve 412 beused to prepare a beverage. Each of the liquid flow control and beveragepreparation capsules, pouches, pods or cartridges of the presentinvention have been described and illustrated as possessing the abilityto control the concentration of beverage regardless of whether or notmodule 400 has a valve 412 or flow divider 440 for partitioning ordiverting portions of the liquid stream. For example, the liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation capsules, pouches, pods and cartridgesof the present invention may include indicia or other notices providedto the user to instruct the user of the different flow ratios and toprovide some indication to the user to allow them to select the rightone for the beverage that they desire. Further, although module 400 isshown removably attached at a liquid dispensing interface of an indoordispenser of a refrigerated appliance (see FIG. 14A), the presentinvention contemplates that module 400 could be removably attached atany liquid dispensing apparatus, such as, but not limited by thoseillustrated by way of example in FIGS. 1A-4B. The module is not limitedto application or combination with the liquid dispensing apparatusesshown or illustrated in the present invention, but use module 400contemplated with any type of liquid dispensing apparatus as previousdiscussed and described. Additionally, module 400 may be configuredspecifically to a flow-through configuration 400 as shown in FIG. 14C ora parallel flow configuration 404 as shown in FIG. 14D. For example,FIGS. 14B-14D illustrates the flexibility and robustness of module 400.The ability to reconfigure module 400 according to the necessary flowrequirements for the beverage being prepared is provided by module 400.For example, in the case where the user selects a flow-through typemodule used to prepare a beverage requiring a flow-throughconfiguration, the user may select a separate module specificallyadapted for flow-through beverage preparation scenarios, such asflow-through configuration 402 of liquid flow control and beveragepreparation module 400 illustrated in FIG. 14C. Much like module 400illustrated in FIG. 14B, module 400 shown in FIG. 14C may be removablyattached to liquid dispensing apparatus 10 by way of attachmentinterface 414 as previously discussed and described. Housing 436 ofmodule 400 includes a compartment 432 in fluid communication with liquidflow path 406 receiving liquid 30 from outlet 18 of liquid dispensingapparatus 10. The user may select a flow-through configured pod,capsule, pouch or cartridge of the present invention and insert withincompartment 432. Supports or attachment points may be included withincompartment 432 for securing any one of the liquid flow control andbeverage preparation devices of the present invention. Those skilled inthe art can appreciate the numerous types of supports and/or connectivefeatures that could be included within compartment 432 for securing anyone of the devices of the present invention within compartment 432.Liquid passing through liquid flow path 406 in compartment 432 passesthrough the selected device and dispenses from outlet 426 of module 400as a beverage. After each use, module 400 may be removed from liquiddispensing apparatus disassembled, washed and sanitized in preparationfor the next use. The cartridge, pouch, capsule or pod used in thebeverage preparation process, in the case where the pouch, cartridge,capsule, or pod is a single use device, may be discarded and a new oneinserted. FIG. 14D illustrates the parallel flow configuration 404 for aliquid flow control and beverage preparation module 400. Like theprevious modules 400, module 400 shown in FIG. 14D includes a housing436 that is removably attachable to liquid dispensing apparatus 10 usingattachment interface 414 as previously discussed and described. Liquidpassing through liquid flow path 12 exits outlet 18 and is passed intocompartment 432. A port 434 is provided between chamber 432 and liquidflow path 406 extending through housing 436 and terminating in an outlet426. To control distribution of liquid flow through chamber 432 or fluidflow path 406 passing externally to housing 436, the diameter of port434 may be altered to either allow more liquid to pass external tochamber 432 or more liquid to pass through chamber 432. As previouslydiscussed and described, the altering of the diameter of port 434 may beused to control the concentration of the beverage being produced. Likepreviously described, the user selects a liquid flow control andbeverage preparation capsule, pouch, cartridge or pod of the presentinvention and inserts it into compartment 432 of module 400.Furthermore, as previously indicated, the user may select a specificliquid flow control and beverage preparation capsule, pouch, cartridgeor pod that is best suited for the desired concentration of the beveragethe user is wanting rather than altering the components of module 400 tocontrol the distribution of liquid. In the case where the user desires aless concentrated beverage, a portion of the liquid passing into housing436 may diverted through port 434 thereby allowing liquid to flowthrough liquid flow path 406 passing external to compartment 432. Theliquid passing through liquid flow path 406 exits through outlet 426 andrecombines with the beverage to weaken the concentration of the beverageaccording to the desire of the user. Liquid flow indicators may beincluded in the case where valve or flow dividers are used to therebyalert the user or allow the user to decide how much liquid is divertedaway from compartment 432. Like the other modules 400, module 400illustrated in FIG. 14D may be detached from liquid dispensingapparatus, washed and sanitized and reused. Furthermore, modules 400illustrated in FIGS. 14C-14D may be reconfigured to provide thenecessary flow configurations for any one of the liquid flow control andbeverage preparation capsules, pouches, cartridges or pods illustratedand described in the present invention. Modules 400 may also be designedsuch that an air buffer is set up in the beverage preparation processbetween the inlet of the beverage preparation device being inserted intocompartment 432 and the outlet 18 of liquid flow path 12 of liquiddispensing apparatus 10 to thereby assist in preventing backcontamination of liquid 30 in liquid dispensing apparatus 10.

Liquid Flow Control and Beverage Preparation Systems

FIGS. 15A-15F illustrate a liquid flow control and beverage preparationsystem 500 according to an exemplary aspect of the present invention.Like liquid flow control and beverage preparation module 400 shown inFIG. 14A, liquid flow control and beverage preparation system 500illustrated in FIG. 15A may be integrated at the dispensing interface ofa water/ice dispenser of a refrigerated appliance. The present inventionshould not be construed as being limited to application only inrefrigerated appliances. The present invention contemplates use of theapparatuses, methods and systems for liquid flow control and beveragepreparation in any type of liquid dispensing appliance or liquiddispenser. The liquid dispensing appliance ort dispenser includes thoseshown and illustrated in the appliance, those discussed and contemplatedin the written text, and any that the present invention could be used incombination with to provide a beverage. Liquid flow control and beveragepreparation system 500 may be manufactured as part of liquid dispensingapparatus or attached in the liquid dispenser after manufacturing anddistribution of the liquid dispenser into the commercial market. Forexample, in the case where system 500 is added after the liquiddispensing apparatus is commercially available, inlet 524 of system 500may be configured with attachment means for securing to liquiddispensing interface or dispensing outlet of the liquid dispensingapparatus. For the purposes of describing, the left and right constructsof system 500 illustrated in FIGS. 15A-15F will be referred to asflow-through and parallel flow constructs. The left side of system 500being referred to as the parallel flow construct and the right side ofsystem 500 being referred to as the flow-through construct. These termsare used merely for the purpose of describing which components of system500 are being described in the preceding written description. As bestillustrated in FIG. 15B, liquid flow control and beverage preparationsystem 500 includes an inlet 524 in fluid communication with liquid flowpath 506 through which liquid is communicated into compartment 532within housing 536. Housing 536 is adapted to receive any one of theliquid flow control and beverage preparation capsules, modules, pouchesor pods of the present invention. Housing 536 may also include a liquidflow path downstream of compartment 532 terminating in an outlet 526.Liquid flow control and beverage preparation system 500 also includes anenhancement component 516 in communication with a pump 538 viaenhancement flow path 508. Pump 538 includes an enhancement flow path508 terminating in an outlet 526. As illustrated in FIG. 15A, liquidflow path 506 is in fluid communication with liquid flow path 12 ofliquid dispensing apparatus 10. Thus, liquid from a liquid source iscommunicated through liquid flow path 12 into compartment 532 of housing536. As illustrated in FIG. 15B, liquid flow control and beveragepreparation system 500 is capable of operating in varying flow modes,and as such is capable of providing varying flow stream configurationsto provide a myriad of beverages, ranging from cold, hot or carbonatedflavored or enhanced beverages. Liquid flow control and beveragepreparation system 500 may also be labeled as an integrated doubledispensing system because liquid flow control and beverage preparationsystem 500 may operate an either flow-through and/or parallel flowconfigurations as best illustrated in FIG. 15B. It should be noted thatthe parallel flow construct in liquid flow control and beveragepreparation system 500 is distinct in separate from the flow-throughconstruct, however, both the flow-through and the parallel flowconstructs complement each other and cooperate together as one systemthereby providing the necessary flow configuration or regimes needed forthe various types of beverage preparation processes. The system 500 iscapable of operating in varying flow modes, and as such is capable ofproviding varying flow stream configurations to provide a myriad ofenhanced beverages. Each of the different flow configurations areillustrated in FIGS. 15C-15F and will be discussed and described in thepreceding paragraphs.

FIG. 15C illustrates one flow configuration for a liquid flow controland beverage preparation system 500 according to an exemplary aspect ofthe present invention. In FIG. 15C, liquid dispensed through liquid flowpath 506 passes through compartment 532 of housing 536 through outlet526 to receiving point where liquid stream is collected in a cup orother receptacle. Because compartment 532 is left open or without aliquid flow control and beverage preparation capsule, pod, pouch orcartridge of the present invention, liquid passing through housing 536dispenses at outlet 526 without being further affected by an enhancementcomponent that may be included within compartment 532 in otherembodiments of the present invention. Thus, using the flow scenariosillustrated in FIG. 15C, a user could dispense water from a liquiddispenser just as the liquid would be presented if system 500 were notincluded as part of the liquid dispensing apparatus. For example, in thecase of the floor standing or table top dispenser illustrated in FIGS.1B-1C, liquid from the liquid source would be provided at the outlet ofthe liquid dispensing devices at the receiving point in the samecondition that the liquid would be in if system 500 were not included aspart of the liquid dispensing apparatus. Thus, if the user desires coldwater from the liquid dispenser cold water may be dispensed throughsystem 500 and remain unaffected given compartment 532 is without anyone of the liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsules,pouches, cartridges or pods which would provide some enhancement to theliquid. Similarly, if the user desired heated liquid, which ordinarilymay be dispensed from liquid dispensing apparatuses illustrated in FIG.1B-1C, the heated liquid would pass through system 500 unaffected and bedispensed at outlet 18 of liquid dispenser to receiving point 20 just asit would be if system 500 were not part of or included in liquiddispensing apparatus.

FIG. 15D illustrates a parallel flow configuration 504 of liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation system 500 according to an exemplaryaspect of the present invention. In FIG. 15D, liquid passes throughcompartment 532 of housing 536 and remains unchanged from the state orcondition at which liquid enters housing 536 and is dispensed at outlet526 via liquid flow path 506. An enhancement component 516, which mayinclude any dispensable type component used to enhance, condition orchange the chemical or physical state or nature of liquid may bedispensed through enhancement flow path 508 using pump 538. Enhancementcomponent 516 passes through pump 538 and is dispensed at outlet 526 ofenhancement flow path 508. Enhancement component 516 combines withliquid 530 at mixing point 510 to provide beverage 518. Beverage 518 maybe collected in a cup or other type of receptacle at the receiving areaof liquid dispensing apparatus in which system 500 is used. Theenhancement flow path 508 and liquid flow path 506 join in midair atmixing point 510. Thus, the enhancement component being used combineswith liquid 530 at mixing point 510 to provide beverage 518. Thoseskilled in the art can appreciate that liquid dispensing apparatuseshave the ability to dispense various conditioned liquid types, such asfor example heated, chilled or carbonated liquid. Thus, depending uponthe desired beverage 518, the user may direct the liquid dispensingapparatus to dispense a conditioned liquid stream, such as a heated,chilled or carbonated liquid, which enhancement component 516 is used tocombine with or affect to create beverage 518. The present inventioncontemplates that system 500 may be configured so that pump 538 is notneeded. In one exemplary aspect, enhancement component 516 could beincluded in a pre-pressurized chamber whereby a valve in enhancementflow path 508 allows enhancement component 516 to be dispensed throughenhancement flow path 508 upon opening of the valve. The pressure withinthe chamber housing enhancement component 516 would dispense enhancementcomponent 516 upon opening of the valve. Alternatively, the chamberhousing enhancement component 516 could be a single use chamber whereupon insertion of the chamber into the system the outlet is opened ormechanically pierced whereby enhancement component 516 is evacuated fromthe chamber (the chamber being pre-pressurized to cause evacuation ofthe enhancement component). In another aspect, the present inventioncontemplates that the chamber in which enhancement component 516 may bestored may be a deformable bladder whereby an actuator applies force tothe deformable bladder to dispense enhancement component 516 throughenhancement flow path 508. The actuator may be manually or automaticallycontrolled depending upon the desired quantity of enhancement component.Enhancement flow path 508 may be configured with a one-way valve wherebypressure applied to the bladder causes enhancement component 516 to passthrough enhancement flow path 508 until the desired amount ofenhancement component 516 is dispensed, at which point the one-way valvecloses and the pressure is removed from the bladder housing enhancementcomponent 516.

FIG. 15E illustrates another exemplary aspect of the liquid flow controland beverage preparation system 500 of the present invention. Asillustrated in FIG. 15E, a liquid flow control and beverage preparationcapsule, pouch, pod or cartridge of the present invention may beinserted within compartment 532 of housing 536. The beverage preparationdevice inserted within housing 536 may be supported and secured withinhousing within compartment 532 using means known to those skilled in theart. Liquid passing through inlet 524 and liquid flow path 506 passesinto chamber 532. The liquid 530 combines with or is affected byenhancement component 516, such as the case where heated liquidpercolates through coffee or tea grounds dispensing at outlet 526 ofhousing 536 to provide beverage 518. Those skilled in the art canappreciate that system 500 illustrated in FIGS. 15C-15F may include oneor more removable assemblies or component parts whereby the parts may beremoved from use to be washed and sanitized to assist in preventing backcontamination of the liquid dispensing apparatus to which system 500operates in cooperation with. Furthermore, housing 536 may be designedso that when a liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsule,pod, pouch or cartridge of the present invention is inserted withincompartment 532 an air buffer is established between enhancementcomponent 516 and inlet 524 of system 500 to assist in preventing backcontamination of liquid within the liquid dispensing apparatus. Theflow-through configuration 502 of liquid flow control and beveragepreparation system 500 shown in FIG. 15E is not limited to beveragepreparation applications where heated liquid is passed through grounds,such as coffee or tea, for preparing beverage 518. Any number of theliquid flow control and beverage preparation capsules, pods, cartridgesor pouches of the present invention may be inserted into housing 536 andmay include any number of enhancement components 516 to prepare a myriadof beverage types. For example, the enhancement component 516 may be aliquid concentrate, which includes a vitamin supplement or othernutraceuticals. Thus, liquid 530 passing through compartment 532combines with or is affected by enhancement component 516 to dispense atoutlet 526 as a combination of liquid 530 and enhancement component 516.As previously discussed and described in the present invention, thedevice inserted into compartment 532 of housing 536 could also be adevice used to provide further conditioning of liquid 530 passingthrough housing 536. For example, a device for further filtration ofliquid 530 could be inserted within housing 536, a device for furtheroxygenation of liquid 530 could be inserted within housing 536, a devicefor irradiating liquid 530 could be inserted within housing 536, adevice for checking the quality or presence of certain chemicals orother elements within liquid 530 could be inserted within housing 536,or any other like device within the contemplation of the presentinvention could be inserted within housing 536 for conditioning,enhancing or altering liquid 530. Unlike the flow configurationillustrated in FIG. 15F, the parallel flow construct remains idle inthis flow scenario meaning the final beverage 518 is not created bycombining enhancement component 516 with beverage 518 by dispensingthrough enhancement flow path 508 at outlet 526. Thus, depending uponthe desire of the user, the parallel flow construct may sit idle whilethe flow-through construct operates. Conversely, the parallel flowconstruct may be active while the flow-through construct sits idle. Allconfigurations and possibilities are within the contemplation of thepresent invention.

FIG. 15F illustrates a parallel flow configuration 504 of liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation system 500. Like flow-throughconfiguration 502 illustrated in FIG. 15E, an enhancement component 516may be included in compartment 532 of housing 536 whereby liquid passinginto housing 530 combines with or is affected by enhancement component516 and dispenses from housing 536 at outlet 526 as one stage of thebeverage preparation process. The parallel flow construct of system 500provides further preparation of beverage 518 by communicating anotherenhancement component 516 through enhancement flow path 508 by use ofpump 538 (or those means previously described) to dispense at outlet 526of enhancement flow path 508 and combined with the beverage prepared bythe flow-through construct of system 500 to provide a finished beverage.The enhancement component 516 dispensed from the parallel flow constructcombines with the beverage prepared by the flow-through construct inmidair at mixing point 510 to provide a completed beverage 518. Forexample, a user may select a liquid flow control and beveragepreparation capsule, pouch, pod or cartridge of the present inventionhaving the desired enhancement component and flow control configurationfor use in the flow-through construct illustrated in FIG. 15F. This mayinclude for example, passing a heated liquid stream 530 through housing536 that is percolated through coffee or tea grounds to provide onestage of the beverage which is in-turn combined with enhancementcomponent 516, such as a syrup concentrate dispensed from the parallelflow construct and combined at mixing point 510 with the beverageprepared from the flow-through construct to provide the finishedbeverage. Another example contemplated by the present invention mayinclude enhancement component 516 in housing 536 being a enhancementcomponent for providing a carbonated liquid stream whereby thecarbonated liquid stream is dispensed at the outlet 526 of housing 536and combined with a syrup concentrate 516 (provided by the parallel flowconstruct) at mixing point 510 to provide a flavored concentratedbeverage, such as flavored soda. As with the other systems 500 describedin FIGS. 15C-15F, an air buffer may be established between the inlet 524and enhancement component 516 within compartment 532 of housing 536 toassist in preventing back contamination of the liquid dispensing systemfrom which liquid is provided to system 500. Furthermore, by combiningthe enhancement flow path and liquid flow path from the paralleldispensing construct and the flow-through dispensing construct of thesystem at a point in midair helps prevent the potential for backcontamination of system 500 or the liquid dispensing apparatus to whichsystem 500 is used in combination with.

FIGS. 16A-16E illustrate a liquid flow control and beverage preparationsystem 500 according to another exemplary aspect of the presentinvention. Like liquid flow control and beverage system preparation 500illustrated in FIGS. 15A-15F, system 500 illustrated in FIGS. 16A-16Emay be included at a dispensing interface of any one of the liquiddispensing apparatuses as described and contemplated in the presentinvention. Similarly, liquid flow control and beverage preparationsystem 500 may be integrated during manufacturing or after liquiddispensing apparatus is commercially available. In the case where system500 is combined with commercially available liquid dispensingapparatuses, attachment means may be included for securing system 500about the liquid dispensing interface and/or outlet of any one of theliquid dispensing apparatuses as shown or contemplated by the presentinvention. For example, liquid flow control and beverage preparationsystem 500 may be removably attached to the liquid dispensing apparatusas shown in FIG. 14B and described in the application. In the case wheresystem 500 is built into the liquid dispensing apparatus duringmanufacturing or even where a kit may be provided whereby system 500 maybe added to an existing liquid dispensing apparatus, system 500 isdesigned so that housing 536 is accessible for removable receipt at theliquid dispensing interface of the liquid dispensing apparatus. Incombination with liquid dispensing apparatus 10, as is illustrated inFIG. 16A, system 500 is tied into the liquid flow path 12, such thatliquid from inlet 14 is communicated through liquid flow path 12, liquidflow control and beverage preparation system 500 and dispensed atreceiving point 20 of liquid dispensing apparatus 10. Preferably, liquiddispensing apparatus 10 includes an attachment interface 24 adapted forsecuring system 500 within, about or to liquid dispensing apparatus 10(see FIG. 16B). Liquid flow control and beverage preparation system 500includes an inlet 524 in fluid communication with liquid flow path 12 ofliquid dispensing system 10 illustrated in FIG. 16A. Liquid passingthrough inlet 524 is communicated through liquid flow path 506 incommunication with valve 512. Valve 512 is in communication with housing536 via liquid flow path 506 between valve 512 and housing 536. Valve512 is also in fluid communication with flow divider 540 via liquid flowpath connecting valve 512 and flow divider 540. Two liquid flow paths506, one extending external to housing 536 and another in communicationwith housing 536 distribute liquid passing through flow divider 540according to the desired flow configuration and beverage preparationprotocol for the beverage being prepared. Housing 536 may be secured toattachment interface 24 of liquid dispensing apparatus 10 via attachmentinterfaces 514. Attachment interfaces 514 may include attachment meansknown by those skilled in the art, including those previously discussed,described and contemplated in the present invention. Housing 536 may bea two-piece component whereby an upper portion is rigidly fixed toattachment interface 24 of liquid dispensing apparatus 10 usingattachment interfaces 514. The two-piece construction of housing 536allows one piece of housing 536 to be attached to liquid dispensingapparatus and another piece to be removably attached, whereby a user maygain access to compartment 532 of housing 536. The two-part constructionof housing 536 may be accomplished by providing a lower portion that ismateably received to an upper portion rigidly attached to liquiddispensing apparatus 10. The lower portion may include outlet 526 andmay be attached to the upper portion of housing 536 using any attachmentmeans known to those skilled in the art including those illustrated,described and contemplated by the present invention. For example, thelower portion of housing 536 could be threadably mated to the upperportion of housing 536 whereby any one of the liquid flow control andbeverage preparation capsules, pods, cartridges, or pouches of thepresent invention may be inserted within compartment 532 of housing 536as illustrated in FIGS. 16D-16E. Designing housing 536 as a two-partcomponent also allows one or more parts of housing 536 to bedisassembled for washing and sanitizing after each use to assist inpreventing back contamination of the liquid dispenser. System 500 asillustrated in FIG. 16B provides a robust combination of flow-throughand parallel flow configurations to facilitate preparation of a myriadof beverages that require different flow configurations. FIGS. 16C-16Eillustrate the various types of flow configurations.

FIG. 16C illustrates one flow dispensing scenario for liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation system 500 according to an exemplaryaspect of the present invention. In FIG. 16C, liquid from liquiddispensing apparatus passes into system 500 through inlet 524 and iscommunicated through liquid flow path 506 to valve 512. Liquid 530,depending upon the valve 512 or flow divider 540 settings, may bediverted totally through liquid flow path 506 in fluid communicationwith housing 536. As previously described, valve 512 may be manuallyactuated or automatically actuated depending upon the flow configurationcorresponding to the desired beverage. For example, an actuator may upongiven an instruction, actuate valve 512 to control the flow of liquid530 through system 500. The user could also manually actuate valve 512or system 500 could be configured to automatically actuate valve 512based upon the type of enhancement component or liquid flow control andbeverage preparation capsule, pouch, pod or cartridge inserted intohousing 536. As previously indicated, in discussion of valve 412illustrated in FIG. 14B, valve 512 may have on/off type functionalitywhereby flow of liquid 530 through system 500 is either permitted or notpermitted. Similarly, valve 512 may be configured to control thevolumetric flow of liquid 530 through system 500 and even control thedistribution of liquid 530 through the various liquid flow paths 506 insystem 500. Flow considerations would likely be based upon the type ofbeverage being prepared. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 16C,compartment 532 of housing 536 is left vacant or empty, void of anyliquid flow control and beverage preparation pod, capsule, pouch orcartridge, such that liquid 530 flowing through housing 536 remainsunchanged and is dispensed from housing 536 at outlet 526 in the samestate as the liquid entered system 500. So, for example, in the casewhere the user simply desires a glass of water, water is communicatedthrough the system unchanged and presented to the user at outlet 526 ofsystem 500 for collection within a cup or other receptacle. In thisinstance, all the liquid 530 passing through system 500 is divertedthrough liquid flow path 506 in communication with housing 536 andoutlet 526. Flow divider 540 and liquid flow paths 506 extending therefrom are left idle in the liquid flow scenario illustrated in FIG. 16C.

FIG. 16D illustrates a parallel flow configuration 504 of liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation system 500. Whereas, FIGS. 16C and 16Eillustrate flow-through configurations 502 of liquid flow control andbeverage preparation system 500. Thus, using the same system 500, but bychanging the flow configuration manually or automatically, system 500may be reconfigured from a flow-through system to a parallel flow systemor from a parallel flow system to a flow-through type system dependingupon the type of beverage being prepared. With the embodimentillustrated in FIG. 16D, an enhancement component 516 is inserted withincompartment 532 of housing 536. As previously described, any one of theliquid flow control and beverage preparation capsules, pouches, pods orcartridges of the present invention may be inserted within compartment532 of housing 536. This can be accomplished as previously described,where a lower portion of housing 536 is threadably detached from theupper portion and enhancement component 516 inserted within compartment532 of housing 536 and secured within compartment 532 by reattaching thelower portion. According to an exemplary method of operation, liquid 530from liquid dispensing apparatus is communicated through inlet 524 andliquid flow path 506 in communication with valve 512 to begin thebeverage preparation process. Depending upon the type of beverage, orthe type of enhancement component 516 inserted within system 500, valve512 may be manually selected or automatically actuated and adjusted tocontrol the flow of liquid 530 through system 500. As shown in FIG. 16D,liquid 530 is directed through liquid flow path 506 in communicationwith flow divider 540. Flow divider 540 is in fluid communication with apair of liquid flow paths 506, one liquid flow path in communicationwith housing 536 and the other liquid flow path 506 passing external tohousing 536. Like valve 512, flow divider 540 may be dialed to thedesired liquid flow distribution configuration whereby the volumetricflow of liquid directed through the two liquid flow paths is controlledto control the concentration of the prepared beverage 518. Similarly,flow divider 540 may have a fixed flow configuration whereby thevolumetric flow of liquid passing through flow divider 540 is controlledby the difference in diameter between the two liquid flow paths 506. Forexample, liquid flow path 506 between flow divider 540 and housing 536may have a smaller diameter than liquid flow path 506 passing externalto housing 536 whereby the volumetric flow of liquid 530 is greater inthe flow path 506 passing external to housing 536 than the flow path 506connecting flow divider 540 and housing 536. Thus, liquid 530 passingthrough liquid flow path 506 between flow divider 540 and housing 536enters chamber 532 and is combined with or affected by enhancementcomponent 516 to provide a beverage having liquid 530 in combinationwith or affected by enhancement component 516 which is dispensed atoutlet 526 of housing 536. A portion of the liquid 530 passing throughsystem 500 also passes through liquid flow path 506, passing external tohousing 536, and combines at a mixing point 510 to prepare the finalbeverage 518. One example of the flow scenario illustrated in FIG. 16Dmay include the instance where the user desires a brewed beverage suchas coffee or tea. In this case, a liquid flow control and beveragepreparation capsule, pod, cartridge or pouch is selected having thedesired enhancement component 516, such as tea grounds or coffeegrounds. The enhancement component 516 is inserted into housing 536 aspreviously described. System 500 calls for heated liquid which ispresented at inlet 524 from liquid dispensing apparatus 10. The heatedliquid 530 travels through valve 512 and flow divider 540. A portion ofthe heated liquid 530 travels into housing 536 and percolates throughenhancement component 516 dispensing at outlet 526 of housing 536 as abrewed beverage. The other portion of heated liquid passes external tohousing 536 through liquid flow path 506 and dispenses at outlet 526.The liquid from the external flow path 506 combines with the brewedbeverage 518 to provide the final brewed product. Thus, in the casewhere the user desires a less concentrated final beverage 518, the flowdivider may be selected so that the majority of the liquid flow passesthrough the flow path 506 flowing external to housing 536.Alternatively, in the case where the user desires a strong concentratedfinal beverage 518, a majority of a heated liquid 530 may be divertedthrough liquid flow path 506 between flow divider 540 and housing 536whereby a majority of the beverage is prepared and dispensed at outlet526 of housing 536 and combined with what little liquid flow is passedexternal to housing 536 through liquid flow path 506.

FIG. 16E illustrates a flow-through configuration 502 of liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation system 500 of the present invention.Like the flow-through scenario illustrated in FIG. 16C, the flow-throughscenario illustrated in FIG. 16E includes the addition of enhancementcomponent 516 within chamber 532 of housing 536. Thus, for example, theuser may select a powder concentrate as the enhancement component,whether alone or in combination with any one of the liquid flow controland beverage preparation capsules, pouches, pods, or cartridges of thepresent invention, which is then inserted within housing 536 throughwhich liquid 530 passes through to combine with or be affected by thepowder concentrate which is subsequently dispensed from housing 536 atoutlet 526 as the combination of liquid 530 and enhancement component516 to provide the final beverage 518. According to an exemplary methodof the present invention, liquid provided from the liquid dispensingapparatus enters system 500 through inlet 524 and passes through liquidflow path 506 into valve 512. Valve 512 is configured manually orautomatically depending upon the type of beverage being prepared, todirect liquid 530 through liquid flow path 506 in communication withhousing 536. Liquid 530 passes through liquid flow path 506 into housing536 liquid 530 combines with or is affected by enhancement component 516within chamber 532. A beverage 518 is dispensed at outlet 526 of housing536 which may be collected at the receiving point of a liquid dispensingapparatus. In this instance, the parallel flow construct (flow divider540 with liquid flow paths 506) remains idle. If a different beverage isdesired, enhancement component 516 may be removed from housing 536 andanother enhancement component selected and inserted whereby the processof the beverage preparation process starts over again. After each use,the components of housing 536 may be disassembled, washed, sanitized,and reassembled for subsequent use. The ability of system 500illustrated in FIGS. 16C-16E to be reconfigured between parallel andflow-through configurations allows system 500 to provide a myriad ofdispensing scenarios corresponding with the requisite dispensingconfiguration depending upon the desired beverage being prepared.

Multi-Body Liquid Flow Control and Beverage Preparation Systems

FIGS. 17A-17D illustrate a multi-body liquid flow control and beveragepreparation system 600 according to exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention. Like previous systems discussed, system 600 may be integratedinto liquid dispensing apparatus 10 during manufacturing or afterapparatus 10 is commercially available. System 600 may be integratedwithin the dispensing interface of any one of the liquid dispensingapparatuses illustrated in the present invention, including thosecontemplated but not shown or discussed. Multi-body liquid flow controland beverage preparation system 600 is in fluid communication withliquid flow path 12 of liquid dispensing apparatus 10. Liquid flow path12 is in fluid communication with inlet 14 of the liquid dispensingapparatus 10. System 600 provides a beverage at receiving point 20 atliquid dispensing apparatus 10.

As shown in FIG. 17B, system 600 includes an inlet 624 adapted for fluidcommunication with liquid flow path 12 of liquid dispensing apparatus10. Inlet 624 is in fluid communication with liquid flow path 606 andvalve 612. Separate liquid flow paths 606 are provided downstream ofvalve 612, one liquid flow path 606 in fluid communication with onechamber 632 and the other liquid flow path 606 in fluid communicationwith another chamber 632. Both left and right chambers 632 are providedwithin housing 636. Chambers 632 have an inlet in the liquid flow path606 adapted for fluid communication with a source of liquid provided bya liquid dispensing apparatus 10 and an outlet (the open end of chambers632) adapted for communication with liquid flow control and beveragepreparation capsule 646. System 600 may include housing 636 and does notnecessary have to include liquid flow control and beverage preparationcapsule 646 (meaning system 600 is fully operable with or withoutcapsule 646). For example, liquid may be dispensed through either one orchambers 632 and provided at a receiving point for capturing with areceptacle such as a cup without being altered using liquid flow controland beverage preparation capsule 646. A sealing interface 644 isprovided between mating surfaces of chamber 632 and liquid flow controland beverage preparation capsule 646. In the case where system 600 isintegrally formed in liquid dispensing apparatus, sealing interface 644is provided on attachment interface 24 of liquid dispensing apparatus10. Sealing interface 644 may entail any type of sealing component knownby those skilled in the art, including those previously described anddiscussed. Liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsule 646 isremovably attached at the mouth of each chamber 632 of housing 636 viaattachment interface 614. Attachment interface 614 may includeattachment interfaces previously discussed or contemplated, includingthose known and within the contemplation of the present invention. Forexample, attachment interface 614 may include the holding deviceillustrated in FIG. 4A. Attachment interface 614 may also be integrallyformed with liquid dispensing apparatus 10 such that liquid flow controland beverage preparation capsule 646 snaps into and out of attachmentinterface 614. Additionally, sealing interface 644 may double as anattachment interface whereby liquid flow control and beveragepreparation capsule 646 is removably secured about the mouth of chamber632. For example, liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsule646 could be threadably attached at sealing interface 644 similar towhat is discussed and shown in FIGS. 3A-3C. Although system 600 in FIG.17B is shown with liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsule646, the present invention contemplates that any liquid flow control andbeverage preparation capsule, pouch, pod or cartridge of the presentinvention may be removably attached at the mouth of chamber 632 inhousing 636 (as illustrated by way of example by liquid flow control andbeverage preparation capsule 646). Each liquid flow control and beveragepreparation capsule 646 may include an enhancement component 616 and anoutlet 626 through which liquid passing through capsule 646 isdispensed. It should be understood that capsule 646 need not have anenhancement component 616 but may be empty whereby liquid passingthrough capsule 646 remains unaffected and is dispensed having the samephysical and chemical nature as it did when it entered and passedthrough system 600. According to an exemplary method of operation,liquid from liquid dispensing apparatus enters inlet 624 of system 600and passes through liquid flow path 606 to valve 612. Like many of thevalves previously described, valve 612 may be manually or automaticallyoperated depending upon the type of beverage being prepared to therebycontrol the flow of liquid through liquid flow path 606 and into one ormore of chambers 632 in housing 636. For example, in the case wheresystem 600 is used to prepare a beverage requiring multiple flavors, aninstruction may be issued to valve 612 from a controller of system 600whereby valve 612 is positioned to pass liquid through both liquid flowpaths 606 into both chambers 632. Each chamber 632 is designed so thatan air buffer is set up between the outlet of liquid flow path 606passing into chamber 632 of housing 636 and the inlet of liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation capsule 646 thereby assisting inpreventing back contamination of the liquid dispensing apparatus.Furthermore, in the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 17C-17D, housing636 may be removed from attachment interface 24 of liquid dispensingapparatus 10, washed, sanitized, and prepared for reuse to assist inpreventing back contamination of liquid dispensing system to whichsystem 600 may be removably attached. Liquid passing through eachchambers 632 and housing 636 enters liquid flow control and beveragepreparation capsule 646 and is combined with or affected by enhancementcomponent 616 to dispense as a beverage at outlet 626 of each capsule646. Thus, in the case where a beverage is desired that requires thecombination of two enhanced liquid streams, liquid may be passed throughchambers 632 and combined with different enhancement components 616 inthe two liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsules 646. Thetwo separate and distinct beverages dispensed from the two liquid flowcontrol and beverage preparation capsules 646 is captured at thereceiving point 20 of liquid dispensing apparatus 10 in a receptacle,such as a cup, where the two enhanced liquid streams combine to form afinal beverage. The present invention contemplates that multi-bodyliquid flow control and beverage preparation system 600 may havemultiple inlets 624 receiving liquid separately from liquid dispensingapparatus to provide separate liquid flow paths into each chamber 632 ofhousing 636. Thus, for example, in the case where a carbonated beveragewith syrup is desired, liquid may be directed into one chamber 632having an enhancement component 616 for carbonating the liquid streamand into the other chamber 632 having the enhancement component 616 forproviding the flavoring liquid stream. The carbonated and flavoredstreams would combine at the receiving point 20 of liquid dispensingapparatus 10 in a receptacle, such as a cup, to provide a flavoredcarbonated beverage. System 600 could also be used for preparation ofhot or cold beverages where a first beverage preparation process isperformed and then combined with a second beverage preparation processthat is performed separately from the first, such as in the case of manyof the modern coffees, lattes, espressos, or other beverages preparedfrom multiple beverage preparation steps or procedures which requiredifferent flow-through configurations.

FIG. 17B illustrates an embodiment of system 600 which may be integrallyformed within liquid dispensing apparatus 10. FIG. 17C illustratesanother aspect of system 600 which may be removably attached at a liquiddispensing interface of liquid dispensing apparatus 10. Housing 636 mayalso include an attachment interface for securing to attachmentinterface 24 of liquid dispensing apparatus 10. Liquid flow paths 606may be attached to valve 612 upon connection of housing 632 to liquiddispensing apparatus 10 by slip joints or any other means known by thoseskilled in the art, including those contemplated and described in thepresent invention. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 17C, housing636 may be disassembled or removed from liquid dispensing apparatus 10for washing and sanitizing after each use. FIG. 17D illustrates anotherembodiment of system 600.

In FIGS. 17B-17C, liquid flow through chamber 632 is controlled by valve612. Thus, upon manual or automated operation of valve 612 liquid ispassed through liquid flow path 606 in communication with both chambers632. System 600 illustrated in FIG. 17D illustrates a version of system600 wherein valve 612 includes a plunger 642 in communication with theoutlet of chamber 632, where plunger 642 is adapted to control operationof valve 612. Plunger 642 extends through chamber 632 and is activatedby placement of liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsule 646at the outlet of chamber 632. When a liquid flow control and beveragepreparation capsule 646 is attached at the outlet of chamber 632,plunger 642 is moved to the open position as illustrated in the imageshown in FIG. 17D. If capsule 646 is removed from housing 636, plunger642 descends closing valve 612 by bringing sealing interface 644 ofvalve into the closing position as illustrated in the diagram at the farright in FIG. 17D. Thus, valve 612 is actuated by plunger 642 whencapsule 646 is removably attached at the outlet of chamber 632 ofhousing 636. The present invention contemplates that plunger 642 may bemanually activated as well. The present invention further contemplatesthat any of the liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsules,pouches, pods, or cartridges when connected at the mouth or outlet ofchamber 632 activate plunger 642 thereby opening valve 612 so thatliquid flow descends through liquid flow path 606 into chamber 632 andinto liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsule 646. Theplunger design incorporated into system 600, as shown in FIG. 17D,prevents liquid dispension through chamber 632 of housing 636 whencapsule 646 is absent.

As illustrated in FIG. 18, capsule 646 may include at the inlet 624 anattachment 614 and/or sealing interface 644 and adapted for securing toa corresponding capsule 646 as illustrated. The sealing interface 644may be included at the inlet 624 and/or outlet 626 of capsule 646. Theattachment interface 614 may include any attachment means known in theart, including those described and illustrated in the present invention.For example, inlet 624 of capsule 646 may be attached to outlet 626 ofanother capsule 646 by threading the inlet 624 to the outlet 626 of theopposing capsule 646. Similarly, outlet 626 of one capsule 646 may besecured to inlet 624 of another capsule 646 using an interference fit,slip joint, snap fitting, compression or tension fit, a detent receivedin a groove, or any other connection means known to those skilled in theart, including those contemplated and illustrated in the presentinvention. The attachment interface 614 may also include the sealinginterface or the sealing interface 644 may be separate from theattachment interface 614. Sealing interface 644 may include sealingmeans known to those skilled in the art, including those discussed andillustrated in the present invention. For example, sealing interface mayinclude any type of gasket, grommet, seal, flange, O-ring or any othertype of sealing member whereby liquid passing between the two connectedcapsules 646 is prevented from leaking out of the mating interfaces ofthe two capsules 646. Using the attachment interface 614 and sealinginterface 644 illustrated in FIG. 18, any one of the liquid flow controland beverage preparation capsules, pouches, pods or cartridges may beenabled to connect together with one another as illustrated in FIG. 18.Furthermore, using the concept illustrated in FIG. 18, a beverage may beprovided where multiple enhancement components are needed, such as forexample where a first beverage preparation step is provided by passingliquid through the uppermost or first capsule 646 and the beverageprovided from the first capsule is then affected or combined with anenhancement component in the second capsule 646 to provide a finishedbeverage. Those skilled in the art can appreciate the many applicationsof the concept illustrated in FIG. 18. Thus, any number of cartridges646 may be connected together in series to provide a finished beverage.This may include one cartridge that filters the liquid, anothercartridge that adds a specific enhancement component to the liquid and afinal cartridge that filters out one of added components to therebyprovide a beverage that is contemplated by the illustrations anddescriptions provided in the present invention, including thosecontemplated and known in the art. Attachment interface 614 and sealinginterface 644 illustrated in FIG. 18 may be used to secure any one ofthe liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsules, pods,pouches, or cartridges of the present invention to any type of liquiddispensing apparatus. Furthermore, attachment interface 614 and/orsealing interface 644 may also be used to secure any one of the liquidflow control and beverage preparation capsules, pods, pouches, orcartridges of the present invention for use in combination with any oneof the liquid flow control and beverage preparation modules and/orsystems as shown or illustrated.

The embodiments of the present invention have been set forth in thedrawings and specification and although specific terms are employed,these are used in the generically descriptive sense only and are notused for the purposes of limitation. Changes in the form and proportionof parts as well as in the substitution of equivalents are contemplatedas circumstances may suggest or are rendered expedient without departingfrom the spirit and scope of the invention as further defined in thefollowing claims.

1. A removably attachable liquid dispension apparatus comprising: a. ahousing having: i. an interface with means for removably connecting thehousing at a point of liquid dispension; ii. a liquid flow path with aninlet adapted for fluid communication with the point of liquiddispension and an outlet adapted for fluid communication with a liquidreceiving point; iii. a chamber positioned intermediately the inlet andthe outlet of the liquid flow path; iv. an enhancement componentreceiving point adapted for removable receipt of an enhancementcomponent; and v. an air buffer section within the chamber between theinlet and outlet providing, a separation between liquid entering intothe chamber through the inlet from liquid being dispensed through theoutlet to prevent back contamination of the point of liquid dispension.2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the housing includes means forregulating flow from the point of liquid dispension.
 3. The apparatus ofclaim 2 wherein the flow regulating means is positioned intermediatelythe point of liquid dispension and the chamber.
 4. The apparatus ofclaim 2 wherein the housing includes means at the enhancement componentreceiving point for instructing the flow regulating means.
 5. Theapparatus of claim 1 wherein flow through the liquid flow path isunblocked when the enhancement component is received at the enhancementcomponent receiving point.
 6. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein theenhancement component receiving point includes an interface with meansfor removably securing an enhancement component to the housing.
 7. Arefrigerator comprising: a. a liquid dispenser having: i. a liquid flowpath connected in fluid communication to a liquid source; ii. a liquiddispension path with an inlet connected in fluid communication with theliquid source and an outlet adapted for fluid communication with aliquid receiving point; iii. a chamber in the dispension pathintermediately the inlet and outlet, iv. an air buffer section in eachchamber between the inlet and outlet providing a separation betweenliquid entering into the chamber through the inlet from liquid beingdispensed through the outlet to prevent back contamination of the liquidsource; and v. an enhancement component receiving point at the chamberadapted for removable receipt of an enhancement component.
 8. Therefrigerator of claim 7 wherein the enhancement component receivingpoint includes an interface with means for removably securing theenhancement component to the liquid dispenser.
 9. The refrigerator ofclaim 7 wherein flow through the liquid dispension path is unblockedwhen the enhancement component is secured at the enhancement componentreceiving point.
 10. The refrigerator of claim 7 further comprisingmeans at the enhancement component receiving point for instructing aflow regulator to control flow through the liquid dispension path. 11.The refrigerator of claim 7 wherein in one configuration the liquiddispenser includes at least two liquid dispension paths, and first andsecond enhancement components removably secured at the respective firstand second dispension paths to simultaneously enhance liquid in the twopaths independently.
 12. The refrigerator of claim 7 wherein in oneconfiguration first and second enhancement components are removablyconnected together in series at the dispension path to sequentiallyenhance liquid independently.
 13. An apparatus for liquid dispensioncomprising: a liquid dispension path with an inlet adapted for fluidcommunication with a liquid source and an outlet adapted for fluidcommunication with a liquid receiving point; a chamber positionedintermediately the inlet and the outlet of the liquid dispension path;an air buffer section in the chamber to separate liquid entering throughthe inlet into the chamber from liquid being dispensed through theoutlet to prevent back contamination of the liquid source; anenhancement component receiving point at the chamber; and an enhancementcomponent capsule removably attached at the enhancement componentreceiving point.
 14. The apparatus of claim 13 wherein the enhancementcomponent capsule includes an inlet in fluid communication with thechamber and an outlet in fluid communication with the liquid receivingpoint.
 15. The apparatus of claim 13 wherein the enhancement componentcapsule includes an outlet with a connection interface adapted forremovably attaching another enhancement component capsule thereto. 16.The apparatus of claim 13 wherein in one configuration a first andsecond enhancement component capsule are removably connected together inseries at the dispension path to sequentially enhance liquid through thecapsules independently.
 17. The apparatus of claim 13 wherein oneconfiguration first and second enhancement component capsules areremovably secured at respective first and second dispension paths tosimultaneously enhance liquid in the two paths independently.
 18. Theapparatus of claim 13 further comprising means for regulating flow fromthe liquid source controlled in part by removable attachment of theenhancement component capsule at the enhancement component receivingpoint.
 19. The apparatus of claim 13 wherein the air buffer section hasa cross section greater than the liquid dispension path.
 20. Theapparatus 13 further comprising a housing having an attachment interfaceadapted for removably securing to a liquid dispenser.